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NEWS RELEASE
HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101
Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894

December 7, 2004
Release Number: 04-12-16


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


VP AND SECDEF VISIT COALITION TROOPS IN AFGHANSTAN

VBAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan---Vice President Dick Cheney and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld visited coalition forces deployed to Bagram Airfield before attending the Afghanistan Presidential Inauguration in Kabul today.

Cheney and Rumsfeld had breakfast with troops and applauded their efforts in the Global War on Terror.

"A watching world has seen once again that the U.S. military is one of the greatest forces for good on this earth," said Cheney. "You're giving some of the best years of your lives in service to your country at the time when we need you the most. Your work is part of the worldwide campaign against terror. Your task is immense, it is urgent, and it is vital for our countries freedom and security. Your children and my grandchildren will live in freedom because of what you are doing today."

Cheney reenlisted 30 U.S. Army Soldiers from the regular Army, Army Reserve and Army National Guard in a ceremony following breakfast. He also presented eight coalition Soldiers with medals ranging from Army Commendation Medals to the Bronze Star for their contributions to Operation Enduring Freedom.

"America's willingness to lead the fight against terror has come at a cost. We've lost some of the finest people in our military whose names we will honor forever," said Cheney. "Recently we experienced the great loss of Lt. Col. Mike McMahon, a cavalryman with 3rd Squadron 4th Cavalry. By their sacrifice and your continuing mission, we will one day overcome the threat of terror."

Rumsfeld also spoke to coalition Soldiers about the positive impact they are making for the Afghan people.

"Twenty-five million people have been liberated. These folks right here will look back in five years and know that they have been a part of something enormously important for this part of the world," said Rumsfeld.

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