Published: September 16, 2008

Blunt Statement on Generals Petraeus, Odierno

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- House Republican Whip Roy Blunt (Mo.) issued the following statement today congratulating General David Petraeus on his outstanding service as commander of the Multi-National Force-Iraq, as he assumes his new role as the Combatant Commander of U.S. Central Command:

"Today, on his last day leading our troops inIraq, a grateful nation thanks General Petraeus for his service. We've been fortunate to have had him leading our troops inIraq at such a critical time.

"Over the past two years, General Petraeus' strategic vision and unflagging commitment to securingIraq through the surge has brought about a dramatic reversal in a country that just two years ago was plagued by terror. As he takes the helm at Central Command, I know he will bring those same skills to bear as he broadens his focus to the entire region and to confronting terrorist insurgents inAfghanistan.

"Having already more than proven himself as an able commander of our successful surge strategy inIraq, General Odierno is now charged with leading our forces during this crucial consolidation phase. His service with General Petraeus over the past two years gives me confidence that this important transition will go smoothly and that we will continue to make progress inIraq."

SOURCE House Republican Whip Roy Blunt