At $10 billion a month -- total cost so far is more than $845 billion --  the war in Iraq is diverting our attention and resources away from our needs at home as well as the ongoing hunt for Osama Bin Laden in Afghanistan.
 
We need a responsible and phased withdrawal that allows our brave troops to exit with honor.  When we leave, we should do so with confidence that the Iraqis are trained well enough to maintain security in their country and protect the Democratic progress they've made.
 
Until that time, we must do everything we can to ensure our troops have the best equipment and protection on and off the field of war. My commitment to will be undeterred. I direct a company that is developing a high-tech anti-IED (improvised exploding device) weapon that will save the lives and limbs of our soldiers, and I will push for similar weapons technology for our troops.
 
Once they return home, our veterans deserve the very best health care available, and I will fight hard to ensure that happens. Under no circumstances, should those who served and defended our country be overlooked or neglected.