July 4 Re-Enlistment in Iraq

In a July 4 re-enlistment ceremony in Baghdad, more than 1,200 U.S. military members took the oath for re-enlistment in the U.S. armed forces, double the number who did so last year.

General David Petraeus, Commanding General, Multi-National Force Iraq, administered the oath in the rotunda of Saddam's Al Faw Palace. No doubt the former Iraqi dictator rolled over in his grave.

Much to the chagrin of the anti-war crowd in the U.S., the surge they so loudly opposed is working, violence is down sharply in Iraq, the country is becoming more stable as Iraqis step up to assume responsibility for their future, and the troops are re-enlisting in record numbers to continue the mission there which they so strongly believe in.

Too bad the lamestream media in America doesn't find that newsworthy. Thanks to the internet, Americans can enjoy freedom of the press again, where ALL the news can be reported, not just the stories that support the liberal agenda.

Here's the story, as reported by Multi-National Force - Iraq:

Baghdad, July 5, 2008 – Service members from all over Iraq gathered here today in the Al Faw Palace rotunda on Camp Victory, to re-enlist and celebrate America’s Independence Day.

All 1,215 service members celebrated by raising their right hand and pledging to continue defending the 'land of the free' in what is the largest re-enlistment ceremony since the all-volunteer force began in 1973, according to the Multi-National Force – Iraq Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj. Marvin L. Hill.

"Volunteering to continue to serve our nation, while deployed – is both noble and inspiring," said Gen. David Petraeus, Commanding General, Multi-National Force – Iraq. "It is, as award citations often state, in keeping with the finest traditions of our military services."

Petraeus presided over the ceremony and led the Airmen, Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers in their oath to defend their country against all enemies, both foreign and domestic, on this day of celebration of America winning its independence.

"We recognize the sacrifices they make and the sacrifices their families and communities make as they serve in Iraq," Hill said. "These service members know the cost of war and they are still re-enlisting."

All together, the service members pledged more than 5,500 years of additional service to their country.

"It makes me feel proud to serve this great nation," said Spc. Zackary Cunningham, mechanic, 602nd Maintenance Battalion, Tactical Base Balad, who plans on making the Army a career.

The re-enlistees have every right to feel proud, according to Petraeus.

"You and your comrades here have been described as America’s new greatest generation, and, in my view, you have more than earned that description," Petraeus said. "It is the greatest of honors to soldier here with you."