On the recordFebruary 16, 2012
I wish all of the Members of the House could take the time to read the National Intelligence Estimate on Afghanistan. It's classified, but I think they would benefit greatly as both parties continue to try to bring our troops home from Afghanistan sooner than 2013. I do want to compliment the Secretary of Defense, Mr. Panetta. I did yesterday, in a hearing, and thanked him for saying that he would start bringing the combat troops home by 2013. Mr. Speaker, I've been advised on Afghanistan by a military marine general for the last 3 years. I have great respect for him. He is a man of faith, and he has served our country at the highest rank in this particular type of service. I can't say his name because he asked me not to use his name publicly, but this marine general has been my adviser for 3 years. We exchanged emails last week, and I'd like to share for the House a couple of his thoughts on the email that he sent to me last week: Attempting to find a true military and political answer to the problems in Afghanistan would take decades, not years, and drain our Nation of precious resources--with the most precious being our sons and daughters. Simply put, the United States cannot solve the Afghan problem no matter how brave and determined our troops are. We need to bring our people home and prepare for the real danger that is growing in the Pacific. Again, I have the utmost respect for this man, and I think the American people would if I could say his name.…
