Testimony Reflects Honest Account (Rep. Joe Wilson)

We are fortunate to have such dedicated and professional individuals in General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker leading our efforts in Iraq.  The testimony they delivered before the joint meeting of the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Foreign Affairs was a candid and genuine account of what they believe is the best course of action for the United States in the War in Iraq.

We have made great strides in Iraq, and General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker were honest about what has been achieved and what remains unresolved.  The troop reduction General Petraeus suggested would be a military decision based on conditions on the ground.  This is how those decisions should be made rather than through political consideration.

While there are individuals who have made up their minds and remain stubbornly opposed to accepting the prospect of success in Iraq, our troops and our national security are best served by a policy that is well-informed.  I am confident in the abilities of General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker, and I hope my colleagues will reflect on all the information we receive today and pursue a constructive and positive way forward.