G. K. Butterfield: “it is absolutely correct: 4 years ago President Bush stood before this sign declaring ``Mission Accomplished,'' but…”

“it is absolutely correct: 4 years ago President Bush stood before this sign declaring ``Mission Accomplished,'' but today he insists on staying the course. To accomplish our own mission, President Bush needs to listen. He needs to listen to the retired military generals who support the approach of this Congress. Retired MG Paul Eaton said, ``This bill gives General Petraeus great leverage for moving the Iraqi Government down the more disciplined path laid out by the Iraq Study Group. LTG William Odom said, ``The bill gives the President a chance to pull back from a disastrous course, reorient U.S. strategy to achieve regional stability, and win help from many other countries, the only way peace will eventually be achieved.'' Major General Montano said the bill ``not only reflects the thinking of the Iraq Study Group but puts teeth to the phrase of `supporting our troops.''' Madam Speaker, the President needs to listen. He needs to listen to these retired generals. And, Mr. President, I will not address you directly, but I would ask you, Madam Speaker, to allow me to say that the bill will be on his desk this afternoon.”