Lee Metcalf: “six months ago, 20,000 top United States combat troops were sent to do guard duty in Bosnia. We also support our troops…”

“six months ago, 20,000 top United States combat troops were sent to do guard duty in Bosnia. We also support our troops in every possible way and want them back safely before Christmas as promised. I have consistently opposed sending our fighting forces to foreign lands unless the objectives are clear and achievable and the timetable and the exit strategy are stated and fully understood by everyone. None of these details were presented to the Congress. It is easy to send people to trouble spots, but it is seldom easy to get them out safely in a timely manner and an honorable manner. President Clinton pledged that this was a temporary mission and that they would be pulled out and brought home in one year. The year is barely half gone. The costs are more than anticipated and rising. What are we now hearing from the highest levels of the administration? The word is filtering down that it may take more time, that our troops may have to stay longer in Bosnia to accomplish their objectives. Objectives which have never been clearly stated and, I believe, never even understood by those who gave the orders that sent them there. We in Congress must be vigilant in the coming weeks and months. We must not allow our service personnel to become permanent occupation troops in Bosnia. If 1 year is not enough, will 2 or 3 or even 5 years suffice? Not likely. Our Nation should keep its word and our troops should be brought home this winter as promised.”