Leon Panetta Officially Brings U.S. War in Iraq to an End
The U.S. war in Iraq — a conflict that killed more than 4,500 American troops, cost $800 billion and divided the nation — officially ended with a ceremony held under tight security.
“To be sure, the cost was high — in blood and treasure for the United States and also for the Iraqi people,” Defense Secretary Leon Panetta called. “But those lives have not been lost in vain.”
The fighting resulted, Panetta said, in a “free and sovereign Iraq.”
He also warned that the Iraq will be tested by terrorism and other threats. The U.S., he said, remains committed to Iraq’s success.
Apache attack helicopters clattered overhead, a sign that the country remains dangerous.
“We are out looking for guys who could pose a threat,” said Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan, the military’s top spokesman in Iraq.
About 4,000 U.S. troops remain in Iraq, their withdrawal expected to be complete by the end of the month.
