Roger Marshall: “Earlier this year, the President made an announcement concerning troop buildup, the proposed plan where Afghanistan is…”

“Earlier this year, the President made an announcement concerning troop buildup, the proposed plan where Afghanistan is concerned and the plan to increase the presence of American soldiers there. He made the announcement in Eisenhower Hall at West Point. I was privileged, along with Mr. Hall and a few other Members of Congress, to attend that. I was really struck by the fact that the Commander in Chief, our President, was talking to thousands of young men and women, some of whom, for sure, will wind up being injured, protecting our country in Afghanistan. I am wearing my infantry tie today. I have my CIB on. I had the privilege of having a couple years of service back during the Vietnam War. And I say it's a privilege, and I view it that way. People will often say to me, Thank you for your service. And sometimes I will respond, You don't really need to thank me. I got more out of this than I gave. I encourage all young Americans to think about attending one of our academies. West Point has received its recognition as the best college in the United States, but all of the academies give wonderful educations, and they give you a wonderful opportunity to serve.”