World War II veteran and Sen. Daniel Akaka had this to say in a statement about President Barack Obama‘s announcement that all U.S. troops would be removed from Iraq by the end of 2011: 

“It is time for the Iraqi government to take responsibility for their own security.  Since the start of the war in 2003, over 4,400 American service members have bravely made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.  I offer my warmest aloha and mahalo to all of the men and women who have served in this war along with their families for their sacrifice. 

“The long-term care of our wounded warriors is a sacred obligation and a continuing cost of war, and we must ensure that they receive the care and benefits they have earned and deserve. We must continue providing employment opportunities, education, job training, and support for veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce.”