Pelosi Statement on President Biden’s Speech on Afghanistan

Contact: Speaker's Press Office,

202-226-7616

San Francisco – Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued this statement after the President delivered remarks upon the conclusion of the war in Afghanistan:

"Today, America and the world observe a milestone of extraordinary solemnity: the end of the twenty-year war in Afghanistan. As Speaker, I commend the President for his strong, steadfast leadership in ending a forever war. As the President stated today, too many men and women in uniform and their families have had to bear the burden of this conflict.

"The Congress joins the President in solemn prayer for every life lost. We are united in prayer for the thirteen U.S. servicemembers killed last Thursday as they helped bring over 124,000 Americans, allies and Afghan partners to safety, an act of profound valor, selflessness and sacrifice:

• Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah
• Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosariopichardo, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts
• Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, 23, of Sacramento, California
• Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, California
• Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page, 23, of Omaha, Nebraska
• Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, 22, of Logansport, Indiana
• Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas
• Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, 20, of St. Charles, Missouri
• Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, 20, of Jackson, Wyoming
• Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, California
• Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, 20, of Norco, California
• Navy Hospitalman Maxton W. Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio
• Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tennessee

"As we honor the heroism of the fallen, we salute each member of our military, intelligence and diplomatic communities who conducted this evacuation, which is the largest and most successful airlift in U.S. history.

"The Congress will continue to work closely with President Biden and the Administration, as we are briefed regularly and work to address the security and humanitarian challenges that remain for evacuees and those who wish to be evacuated. We pray for the people of Afghanistan and in the region."

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