On the recordSeptember 28, 2010
the conflict in Afghanistan enters its ninth year next month. Over the past few months, the United States has experienced the most casualties since the war began in 2001. In June, 60 U.S. troops were killed; in July, 66; in the month of August, 55 service members gave their lives. We always recall the words of Lincoln when we recall those who are killed in action, those who gave, as he said, the last full measure of devotion to their country. These are difficult days, and that is an understatement--very difficult days for the American people and especially for the families and the troops. I also believe these are days that have tried the patience of Americans and tested the resolve of our commitment to this conflict. At a minimum, we--when I say ``we,'' I mean those Members of the U.S. Congress--we owe the families of these service members every assurance that their elected officials, their elected representatives in Washington are vigilantly exercising oversight of the war.
