Remarks by the President and First Lady on the End of the War in Iraq | whitehouse.gov Remarks by the President and First Lady on the End of the War in Iraq Fort Bragg, North Carolina 11:52 A.M. EST MRS. OBAMA: Hello, everyone! I get to start you all off. I want to begin by thanking General Anderson for that introduction, but more importantly for his leadership here at Fort Bragg. I can’t tell you what a pleasure and an honor it is to be back here. I have so many wonderful memories of this place. A couple of years ago, I came here on my very first official trip as First Lady. And I spent some -- a great time with some of the amazing military spouses, and I visited again this summer to help to put on the finishing touches on an amazing new home for a veteran and her family. So when I heard that I had the opportunity to come back and to be a part of welcoming you all home, to say I was excited was an understatement. And I have to tell you that when I look out at this crowd, I am simply overwhelmed.

I am overwhelmed and proud, because I know the level of strength and commitment that you all display every single day. Whenever this country calls, you all are the ones who answer, no matter the circumstance, no matter the danger, no matter the sacrifice. And I know that you do this not just as soldiers, not just as patriots, but as fathers and mothers, as brothers and sisters, as sons and daughters. And I know that while your children and your spouses and your parents and siblings might not wear uniforms, they serve right alongside you. AUDIENCE: Hooah! (Applause.) MRS. OBAMA: I know that your sacrifice is their sacrifice, too. So when I think of all that you do and all that your families do, I am so proud and so grateful. But more importantly, I’m inspired. But like so many Americans, I never feel like I can fully convey just how thankful I am, because words just don’t seem to be enough. And that’s why I have been working so hard, along with Jill Biden, on a campaign that we call Joining Forces. It’s a campaign that we hope goes beyond words. It’s a campaign that is about action.

It’s about rallying all Americans to give you the honor, the appreciation and the support that you have all earned. And I don’t have to tell you that this hasn’t been a difficult campaign. We haven’t had to do much convincing because American have been lining up to show their appreciation for you and your families in very concrete and meaningful ways. Businesses are hiring tens of thousands of veterans and military spouses. Schools all across the country and PTAs are reaching out to our military children. And individuals are serving their neighbors and their communities all over this country in your honor. So I want you to know that this nation’s support doesn’t end as this war ends. Not by a long shot. We’re going to keep on doing this. We have so much more work to do. We’re going to keep finding new ways to serve all of you as well as you have served us. And the man leading the way is standing right here. (Applause.) He is fighting for you and your families every single day. He’s helped more than half a million veterans and military family members go to college through the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill. (Applause.) He’s taken unprecedented steps to improve mental health care.

He’s cut taxes for businesses that hire a veteran or a wounded warrior. And he has kept his promise to responsibly bring you home from Iraq. So please join me in welcoming someone who’s your strongest advocate, someone who shows his support for our military not only in words, but in deeds, my husband, our President, and your Commander-in-Chief, Barack Obama. (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT: Hello, everybody! (Applause.) Hello, Fort Bragg! All the way! AUDIENCE: Airborne! THE PRESIDENT: Now, I’m sure you realize why I don’t like following Michelle Obama. (Laughter.) She’s pretty good. And it is true, I am a little biased, but let me just say it: Michelle, you are a remarkable First Lady. You are a great advocate for military families. (Applause.) And you’re cute. (Applause.) I’m just saying -- gentlemen, that’s your goal: to marry up. (Laughter.) Punch above your weight. Fort Bragg, we’re here to mark a historic moment in the life of our country and our military. For nearly nine years, our nation has been at war in Iraq.

And you -- the incredible men and women of Fort Bragg -- have been there every step of the way, serving with honor, sacrificing greatly, from the first waves of the invasion to some of the last troops to come home. So, as your Commander-in-Chief, and on behalf of a grateful nation, I’m proud to finally say these two words, and I know your families agree: Welcome home! (Applause.) Welcome home. Welcome home. (Applause.) Welcome home. It is great to be here at Fort Bragg -- home of the Airborne and Special Operations Forces. I want to thank General Anderson and all your outstanding leaders for welcoming us here today, including General Dave Rodriguez, General John Mulholland. And I want to give a shout-out to your outstanding senior enlisted leaders, including Command Sergeant Major Roger Howard, Darrin Bohn, Parry Baer. And give a big round of applause to the Ground Forces Band. (Applause.) We’ve got a lot of folks in the house today. We’ve got the 18th Airborne Corps -- the Sky Dragons. (Applause.) We’ve got the legendary, All-American 82nd Airborne Division.

(Applause.) We’ve got America’s quiet professionals -- our Special Operations Forces. (Applause.) From Pope Field, we’ve got Air Force. (Applause.) And I do believe we’ve got some Navy and Marine Corps here, too. AUDIENCE MEMBER: Yes! (Laughter.) THE PRESIDENT: And though they’re not here with us today, we send our thoughts and prayers to General Helmick, Sergeant Major Rice and all the folks from the 18th Airborne and Bragg who are bringing our troops back from Iraq. (Applause.) We honor everyone from the 82nd Airborne and Bragg serving and succeeding in Afghanistan, and General Votel and those serving around the world. And let me just say, one of the most humbling moments I’ve had as President was when I presented our nation’s highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, to the parents of one of those patriots from Fort Bragg who gave his life in Afghanistan -- Staff Sergeant Robert Miller. I want to salute Ginny Rodriguez, Miriam Mulholland, Linda Anderson, Melissa Helmick, Michelle Votel and all the inspiring military families here today. We honor your service as well.

(Applause.) And finally, I want to acknowledge your neighbors and friends who help keep your -- this outstanding operation going, all who help to keep you Army Strong, and that includes Representatives Mike McIntyre, and Dave Price, and Heath Shuler, and Governor Bev Perdue. I know Bev is so proud to have done so much for our military families. So give them a big round of applause. (Applause.) Today, I’ve come to speak to you about the end of the war in Iraq. Over the last few months, the final work of leaving Iraq has been done. Dozens of bases with American names that housed thousands of American troops have been closed down or turned over to the Iraqis. Thousands of tons of equipment have been packed up and shipped out. Tomorrow, the colors of United States Forces-Iraq -- the colors you fought under -- will be formally cased in a ceremony in Baghdad. Then they’ll begin their journey across an ocean, back home. Over the last three years, nearly 150,000 U.S. troops have left Iraq. And over the next few days, a small group of American soldiers will begin the final march out of that country.

Some of them are on their way back to Fort Bragg. As General Helmick said, “They know that the last tactical road march out of Iraq will be a symbol, and they’re going to be a part of history.” As your Commander-in-Chief, I can tell you that it will indeed be a part of history. Those last American troops will move south on desert sands, and then they will cross the border out of Iraq with their heads held high. One of the most extraordinary chapters in the history of the American military will come to an end. Iraq’s future will be in the hands of its people. America’s war in Iraq will be over. AUDIENCE: Hooah! THE PRESIDENT: Now, we knew this day would come. We’ve known it for some time. But still, there is something profound about the end of a war that has lasted so long. Now, nine years ago, American troops were preparing to deploy to the Persian Gulf and the possibility that they would be sent to war. Many of you were in grade school. I was a state senator. Many of the leaders now governing Iraq -- including the Prime Minister -- were living in exile. And since then, our efforts in Iraq have taken many twists and turns.

It was a source of great controversy here at home, with patriots on both sides of the debate. But there was one constant -- there was one constant: your patriotism, your commitment to fulfill your mission, your abiding commitment to one another. That was constant. That did not change. That did not waiver. It’s harder to end a war than begin one. Indeed, everything that American troops have done in Iraq -– all the fighting and all the dying, the bleeding and the building, and the training and the partnering -– all of it has led to this moment of success. Now, Iraq is not a perfect place. It has many challenges ahead. But we’re leaving behind a sovereign, stable and self-reliant Iraq, with a representative government that was elected by its people. We’re building a new partnership between our nations. And we are ending a war not with a final battle, but with a final march toward home. This is an extraordinary achievement, nearly nine years in the making. And today, we remember everything that you did to make it possible.

We remember the early days -– the American units that streaked across the sands and skies of Iraq; the battles from Karbala to Baghdad, American troops breaking the back of a brutal dictator in less than a month. We remember the grind of the insurgency -– the roadside bombs, the sniper fire, the suicide attacks. From the “triangle of death” to the fight for Ramadi; from Mosul in the north to Basra in the south -– your will proved stronger than the terror of those who tried to break it. We remember the specter of sectarian violence -– al Qaeda’s attacks on mosques and pilgrims, militias that carried out campaigns of intimidation and campaigns of assassination. And in the face of ancient divisions, you stood firm to help those Iraqis who put their faith in the future. We remember the surge and we remember the Awakening -– when the abyss of chaos turned toward the promise of reconciliation. By battling and building block by block in Baghdad, by bringing tribes into the fold and partnering with the Iraqi army and police, you helped turn the tide toward peace.

And we remember the end of our combat mission and the emergence of a new dawn -– the precision of our efforts against al Qaeda in Iraq, the professionalism of the training of Iraqi security forces, and the steady drawdown of our forces. In handing over responsibility to the Iraqis, you preserved the gains of the last four years and made this day possible. Just last month, some of you -- members of the Falcon Brigade -- AUDIENCE: Hooah! THE PRESIDENT: -- turned over the Anbar Operations Center to the Iraqis in the type of ceremony that has become commonplace over these last several months. In an area that was once the heart of the insurgency, a combination of fighting and training, politics and partnership brought the promise of peace. And here’s what the local Iraqi deputy governor said: “This is all because of the U.S. forces’ hard work and sacrifice.” That’s in the words of an Iraqi. Hard work and sacrifice. Those words only begin to describe the costs of this war and the courage of the men and women who fought it. We know too well the heavy cost of this war. More than 1.5 million Americans have served in Iraq -- 1.5 million.

Over 30,000 Americans have been wounded, and those are only the wounds that show. Nearly 4,500 Americans made the ultimate sacrifice -- including 202 fallen heroes from here at Fort Bragg -- 202. So today, we pause to say a prayer for all those families who have lost their loved ones, for they are part of our broader American family. We grieve with them. We also know that these numbers don’t tell the full story of the Iraq war -– not even close. Our civilians have represented our country with skill and bravery. Our troops have served tour after tour of duty, with precious little dwell time in between. Our Guard and Reserve units stepped up with unprecedented service. You’ve endured dangerous foot patrols and you’ve endured the pain of seeing your friends and comrades fall. You’ve had to be more than soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen –- you’ve also had to be diplomats and development workers and trainers and peacemakers. Through all this, you have shown why the United States military is the finest fighting force in the history of the world. AUDIENCE: Hooah!

(Applause.) THE PRESIDENT: As Michelle mentioned, we also know that the burden of war is borne by your families. In countless base communities like Bragg, folks have come together in the absence of a loved one. As the Mayor of Fayetteville put it, “War is not a political word here. War is where our friends and neighbors go.” So there have been missed birthday parties and graduations. There are bills to pay and jobs that have to be juggled while picking up the kids. For every soldier that goes on patrol, there are the husbands and the wives, the mothers, the fathers, the sons, the daughters praying that they come back. So today, as we mark the end of the war, let us acknowledge, let us give a heartfelt round of applause for every military family that has carried that load over the last nine years. You too have the thanks of a grateful nation. (Applause.) Part of ending a war responsibly is standing by those who fought it. It’s not enough to honor you with words. Words are cheap. We must do it with deeds. You stood up for America; America needs to stand up for you. AUDIENCE: Hooah!

THE PRESIDENT: That’s why, as your Commander-in Chief, I am committed to making sure that you get the care and the benefits and the opportunities that you’ve earned. For those of you who remain in uniform, we will do whatever it takes to ensure the health of our force –- including your families. We will keep faith with you. We will help our wounded warriors heal, and we will stand by those who’ve suffered the unseen wounds of war. And make no mistake -- as we go forward as a nation, we are going to keep America’s armed forces the strongest fighting force the world has ever seen. That will not stop. AUDIENCE: Hooah! (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT: That will not stop. But our commitment doesn’t end when you take off the uniform. You’re the finest that our nation has to offer. And after years of rebuilding Iraq, we want to enlist our veterans in the work of rebuilding America. That’s why we’re committed to doing everything we can to extend more opportunities to those who have served. That includes the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, so that you and your families can get the education that allows you to live out your dreams.

That includes a national effort to put our veterans to work. We’ve worked with Congress to pass a tax credit so that companies have the incentive to hire vets. And Michelle has worked with the private sector to get commitments to create 100,000 jobs for those who’ve served. AUDIENCE: Hooah! THE PRESIDENT: And by the way, we’re doing this not just because it’s the right thing to do by you –- we’re doing it because it’s the right thing to do for America. Folks like my grandfather came back from World War II to form the backbone of this country’s middle class. For our post-9/11 veterans -– with your skill, with your discipline, with your leadership, I am confident that the story of your service to America is just beginning. But there’s something else that we owe you. As Americans, we have a responsibility to learn from your service. I’m thinking of an example -- Lieutenant Alvin Shell, who was based here at Fort Bragg. A few years ago, on a supply route outside Baghdad, he and his team were engulfed by flames from an RPG attack.

Covered with gasoline, he ran into the fire to help his fellow soldiers, and then led them two miles back to Camp Victory where he finally collapsed, covered with burns. When they told him he was a hero, Alvin disagreed. “I’m not a hero,” he said. “A hero is a sandwich. “ (Laughter.) “I’m a paratrooper.” AUDIENCE: Hooah! THE PRESIDENT: We could do well to learn from Alvin. This country needs to learn from you. Folks in Washington need to learn from you. AUDIENCE: Hooah! THE PRESIDENT: Policymakers and historians will continue to analyze the strategic lessons of Iraq -- that’s important to do. Our commanders will incorporate the hard-won lessons into future military campaigns -- that’s important to do. But the most important lesson that we can take from you is not about military strategy –- it’s a lesson about our national character. For all of the challenges that our nation faces, you remind us that there’s nothing we Americans can’t do when we stick together. AUDIENCE: Hooah!

THE PRESIDENT: For all the disagreements that we face, you remind us there’s something bigger than our differences, something that makes us one nation and one people regardless of color, regardless of creed, regardless of what part of the country we come from, regardless of what backgrounds we come out of. You remind us we’re one nation. And that’s why the United States military is the most respected institution in our land because you never forget that. You can’t afford to forget it. If you forget it, somebody dies. If you forget it, a mission fails. So you don’t forget it. You have each other’s backs. That’s why you, the 9/11 Generation, has earned your place in history. Because of you -- because you sacrificed so much for a people that you had never met, Iraqis have a chance to forge their own destiny. That’s part of what makes us special as Americans. Unlike the old empires, we don’t make these sacrifices for territory or for resources. We do it because it’s right. There can be no fuller expression of America’s support for self-determination than our leaving Iraq to its people. That says something about who we are.

Because of you, in Afghanistan we’ve broken the momentum of the Taliban. Because of you, we’ve begun a transition to the Afghans that will allow us to bring our troops home from there. And around the globe, as we draw down in Iraq, we have gone after al Qaeda so that terrorists who threaten America will have no safe haven, and Osama bin Laden will never again walk the face of this Earth. AUDIENCE: Hooah! (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT: So here’s what I want you to know, and here’s what I want all our men and women in uniform to know: Because of you, we are ending these wars in a way that will make America stronger and the world more secure. Because of you. That success was never guaranteed. And let us never forget the source of American leadership: our commitment to the values that are written into our founding documents, and a unique willingness among nations to pay a great price for the progress of human freedom and dignity. This is who we are. That’s what we do as Americans, together. The war in Iraq will soon belong to history. Your service belongs to the ages.

Never forget that you are part of an unbroken line of heroes spanning two centuries –- from the colonists who overthrew an empire, to your grandparents and parents who faced down fascism and communism, to you –- men and women who fought for the same principles in Fallujah and Kandahar, and delivered justice to those who attacked us on 9/11. Looking back on the war that saved our union, a great American, Oliver Wendell Holmes, once paid tribute to those who served. “In our youth,” he said, “our hearts were touched with fire. It was given to us to learn at the outset that life is a profound and passionate thing.” All of you here today have lived through the fires of war. You will be remembered for it. You will be honored for it -- always. You have done something profound with your lives. When this nation went to war, you signed up to serve. When times were tough, you kept fighting. When there was no end in sight, you found light in the darkness.

And years from now, your legacy will endure in the names of your fallen comrades etched on headstones at Arlington, and the quiet memorials across our country; in the whispered words of admiration as you march in parades, and in the freedom of our children and our grandchildren. And in the quiet of night, you will recall that your heart was once touched by fire. You will know that you answered when your country called; you served a cause greater than yourselves; you helped forge a just and lasting peace with Iraq, and among all nations. I could not be prouder of you, and America could not be prouder of you. God bless you all, God bless your families, and God bless the United States of America. (Applause.) END Barack Obama's TV address on Isis: full text | US news | The Guardian Obama administration Barack Obama's TV address on Isis: full text Full text of Barack Obama’s televised remarks on an expanded campaign against Isis militants in Iraq and Syria President Barack Obama delivers a primetime address from the Cross Hall of the White House.

Photograph: Saul Loeb/EPA Wednesday 10 September 2014 21.14 EDT Last modified on Saturday 19 November 2016 15.50 EST Close This article is 2 years old My fellow Americans – tonight, I want to speak to you about what the United States will do with our friends and allies to degrade and ultimately destroy the terrorist group known as ISIL. As Commander-in-Chief, my highest priority is the security of the American people. Over the last several years, we have consistently taken the fight to terrorists who threaten our country. We took out Osama bin Laden and much of al Qaeda’s leadership in Afghanistan and Pakistan. We’ve targeted al Qaeda’s affiliate in Yemen, and recently eliminated the top commander of its affiliate in Somalia. We’ve done so while bringing more than 140,000 American troops home from Iraq , and drawing down our forces in Afghanistan, where our combat mission will end later this year. Thanks to our military and counterterrorism professionals, America is safer. Still, we continue to face a terrorist threat. We cannot erase every trace of evil from the world, and small groups of killers have the capacity to do great harm.

That was the case before 9/11, and that remains true today. That’s why we must remain vigilant as threats emerge. At this moment, the greatest threats come from the Middle East and North Africa , where radical groups exploit grievances for their own gain. And one of those groups is ISIL – which calls itself the “Islamic State.” Now let’s make two things clear: ISIL is not “Islamic.” No religion condones the killing of innocents, and the vast majority of ISIL’s victims have been Muslim. And ISIL is certainly not a state. It was formerly al Qaeda’s affiliate in Iraq, and has taken advantage of sectarian strife and Syria’s civil war to gain territory on both sides of the Iraq-Syrian border. It is recognized by no government, nor the people it subjugates. ISIL is a terrorist organization, pure and simple. And it has no vision other than the slaughter of all who stand in its way. In a region that has known so much bloodshed, these terrorists are unique in their brutality. They execute captured prisoners. They kill children. They enslave, rape, and force women into marriage. They threatened a religious minority with genocide.

In acts of barbarism, they took the lives of two American journalists – Jim Foley and Steven Sotloff. So ISIL poses a threat to the people of Iraq and Syria, and the broader Middle East – including American citizens, personnel and facilities. If left unchecked, these terrorists could pose a growing threat beyond that region – including to the United States. While we have not yet detected specific plotting against our homeland, ISIL leaders have threatened America and our allies. Our intelligence community believes that thousands of foreigners – including Europeans and some Americans – have joined them in Syria and Iraq. Trained and battle-hardened, these fighters could try to return to their home countries and carry out deadly attacks. I know many Americans are concerned about these threats. Tonight, I want you to know that the United States of America is meeting them with strength and resolve. Last month, I ordered our military to take targeted action against ISIL to stop its advances. Since then, we have conducted more than 150 successful airstrikes in Iraq. These strikes have protected American personnel and facilities, killed ISIL fighters, destroyed weapons, and given space for Iraqi and Kurdish forces to reclaim key territory. These strikes have helped save the lives of thousands of innocent men, women and children.

But this is not our fight alone. American power can make a decisive difference, but we cannot do for Iraqis what they must do for themselves, nor can we take the place of Arab partners in securing their region. That’s why I’ve insisted that additional U.S. action depended upon Iraqis forming an inclusive government, which they have now done in recent days. So tonight, with a new Iraqi government in place, and following consultations with allies abroad and Congress at home, I can announce that America will lead a broad coalition to roll back this terrorist threat. Our objective is clear: we will degrade, and ultimately destroy, ISIL through a comprehensive and sustained counter-terrorism strategy. First, we will conduct a systematic campaign of airstrikes against these terrorists. Working with the Iraqi government, we will expand our efforts beyond protecting our own people and humanitarian missions, so that we’re hitting ISIL targets as Iraqi forces go on offense. Moreover, I have made it clear that we will hunt down terrorists who threaten our country, wherever they are. That means I will not hesitate to take action against ISIL in Syria, as well as Iraq. This is a core principle of my presidency: if you threaten America, you will find no safe haven.

Second, we will increase our support to forces fighting these terrorists on the ground. In June, I deployed several hundred American service members to Iraq to assess how we can best support Iraqi Security Forces. Now that those teams have completed their work – and Iraq has formed a government – we will send an additional 475 service members to Iraq. As I have said before, these American forces will not have a combat mission – we will not get dragged into another ground war in Iraq. But they are needed to support Iraqi and Kurdish forces with training, intelligence and equipment. We will also support Iraq’s efforts to stand up National Guard Units to help Sunni communities secure their own freedom from ISIL control. Across the border, in Syria, we have ramped up our military assistance to the Syrian opposition. Tonight, I again call on Congress to give us additional authorities and resources to train and equip these fighters. In the fight against ISIL, we cannot rely on an Assad regime that terrorizes its people; a regime that will never regain the legitimacy it has lost. Instead, we must strengthen the opposition as the best counterweight to extremists like ISIL, while pursuing the political solution necessary to solve Syria’s crisis once and for all.

Third, we will continue to draw on our substantial counterterrorism capabilities to prevent ISIL attacks. Working with our partners, we will redouble our efforts to cut off its funding; improve our intelligence; strengthen our defenses; counter its warped ideology; and stem the flow of foreign fighters into – and out of – the Middle East. And in two weeks, I will chair a meeting of the UN Security Council to further mobilize the international community around this effort. Fourth, we will continue providing humanitarian assistance to innocent civilians who have been displaced by this terrorist organization. This includes Sunni and Shia Muslims who are at grave risk, as well as tens of thousands of Christians and other religious minorities. We cannot allow these communities to be driven from their ancient homelands. This is our strategy. And in each of these four parts of our strategy, America will be joined by a broad coalition of partners. Already, allies are flying planes with us over Iraq; sending arms and assistance to Iraqi Security Forces and the Syrian opposition; sharing intelligence; and providing billions of dollars in humanitarian aid.

Secretary Kerry was in Iraq today meeting with the new government and supporting their efforts to promote unity, and in the coming days he will travel across the Middle East and Europe to enlist more partners in this fight, especially Arab nations who can help mobilize Sunni communities in Iraq and Syria to drive these terrorists from their lands. This is American leadership at its best: we stand with people who fight for their own freedom; and we rally other nations on behalf of our common security and common humanity. My Administration has also secured bipartisan support for this approach here at home. I have the authority to address the threat from ISIL. But I believe we are strongest as a nation when the President and Congress work together. So I welcome congressional support for this effort in order to show the world that Americans are united in confronting this danger. Now, it will take time to eradicate a cancer like ISIL. And any time we take military action, there are risks involved – especially to the servicemen and women who carry out these missions. But I want the American people to understand how this effort will be different from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. It will not involve American combat troops fighting on foreign soil.

This counter-terrorism campaign will be waged through a steady, relentless effort to take out ISIL wherever they exist, using our air power and our support for partner forces on the ground. This strategy of taking out terrorists who threaten us, while supporting partners on the front lines, is one that we have successfully pursued in Yemen and Somalia for years. And it is consistent with the approach I outlined earlier this year: to use force against anyone who threatens America’s core interests, but to mobilize partners wherever possible to address broader challenges to international order. My fellow Americans, we live in a time of great change. Tomorrow marks 13 years since our country was attacked. Next week marks 6 years since our economy suffered its worst setback since the Great Depression. Yet despite these shocks; through the pain we have felt and the grueling work required to bounce back – America is better positioned today to seize the future than any other nation on Earth. Our technology companies and universities are unmatched; our manufacturing and auto industries are thriving. Energy independence is closer than it’s been in decades. For all the work that remains, our businesses are in the longest uninterrupted stretch of job creation in our history.

Despite all the divisions and discord within our democracy, I see the grit and determination and common goodness of the American people every single day – and that makes me more confident than ever about our country’s future. Abroad, American leadership is the one constant in an uncertain world. It is America that has the capacity and the will to mobilize the world against terrorists. It is America that has rallied the world against Russian aggression, and in support of the Ukrainian peoples’ right to determine their own destiny. It is America – our scientists, our doctors, our know-how – that can help contain and cure the outbreak of Ebola. It is America that helped remove and destroy Syria’s declared chemical weapons so they cannot pose a threat to the Syrian people – or the world – again. And it is America that is helping Muslim communities around the world not just in the fight against terrorism, but in the fight for opportunity, tolerance, and a more hopeful future. America, our endless blessings bestow an enduring burden. But as Americans, we welcome our responsibility to lead. From Europe to Asia – from the far reaches of Africa to war-torn capitals of the Middle East – we stand for freedom, for justice, for dignity. These are values that have guided our nation since its founding.

Tonight, I ask for your support in carrying that leadership forward. I do so as a Commander-in-Chief who could not be prouder of our men and women in uniform – pilots who bravely fly in the face of danger above the Middle East, and service-members who support our partners on the ground. When we helped prevent the massacre of civilians trapped on a distant mountain, here’s what one of them said. “We owe our American friends our lives. Our children will always remember that there was someone who felt our struggle and made a long journey to protect innocent people.” That is the difference we make in the world. And our own safety – our own security – depends upon our willingness to do what it takes to defend this nation, and uphold the values that we stand for – timeless ideals that will endure long after those who offer only hate and destruction have been vanquished from the Earth. May God bless our troops, and may God bless the United States of America.

Kerry ‘extremely encouraged’ as UAE and Saudi Arabia offer help while White House is confident of gaining congressional backing Published: 14 Sep 2014 Obama in Hawaii: An Inside Look at the First Family's Winter Vacation - ABC News ABC News Obama in Hawaii: An Inside Look at the First Family's Winter Vacation By ABC NEWS HONOLULU  Jan 3, 2015, 10:20 PM ET 0 Shares Star Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo President Barack Obama eats shave ice with daughter Malia at Island Snow, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015, in Kailua, in Hawaii during the Obama family vacation. 0 Shares Email It was a long year for President Obama (see: ISIS, Ebola, Democrats' staggering loss in the 2014 midterms) -- and the commander-in-chief is in serious need of a little R&R. Obama and family departed on Dec. 19 for a 16-day holiday in his native state, Hawaii . It was their sixth Oahu vacation since the president took office.

Of course, there's no such thing as a work-free vacation for a sitting president, but Obama did tell reporters he hoped the trip would be a "quiet time-out" to enjoy the family. ABC News was along for the ride, and we'll give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like on an Obama vacation. House Calls in Honolulu: Eddie Vedder Edition Saturday, Jan. 3 President Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia paid a surprise afternoon visit to the Kailua home of Pearl Jam rocker Eddie Vedder. It turns out the Obamas and Vedder are relative neighbors on Oahu, since the first family also rents a place nearby on the north shore. Vedder was a prominent supporter of Obama’s two election campaigns. In September 2012, he headlined a $20,000-per-person fundraiser in Tampa, Fla., which the president attended and helped raise close to $2 million. After Vedder performed an acoustic set at the event, he famously broke out a Hawaiian-made ukulele and joked, "It's got a little birth certificate right in there!” – a reference to those widely refuted claims that Obama was born overseas.

The White House did not allow press coverage of today's visit. Earlier in the afternoon, the Obamas stopped by the Punchbowl cemetery to see their maternal grandfather and paid a visit to the president's half-sister Maya Soetoro-Ng. No word on why First Lady Michelle Obama did not join. --Devin Dwyer Final Day in Paradise Saturday, Jan. 3 The Obama family is soaking up the Hawaiian sun and surf for one final day before returning to Washington. All told, the president has played 9 rounds of golf, hit the beach 5 times, went on a snorkeling expedition, took a hike into the mountains, attended a luau with friends, and spent a dozen hours at the gym. Air Force One was scheduled to depart Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam late Saturday evening Hawaiian time, returning the family to the White House by midday Sunday. Before they board the plane for the red-eye flight, they'll enjoy one last dinner out on the island. No word from the White House on the restaurant of choice, but if past years are any guide they will close out the holiday with steaks at Buzz's Original Steakhouse in Lanikai.

--Devin Dwyer When a Rainbow Isn't Lucky Friday, Jan. 2 A brilliant rainbow appeared Friday over the seaside Kailua subdivision where Obama has been vacationing, but it wasn't a lucky day for one of his neighbors. Cheyne Todani, who has stood along the president's motorcade route for days holding a sign, wanted Obama to stop and say hello. "You are my son's hero. I promised him I'll try my best to get his ball signed," it read. A basketball rested on the ground by his feet. Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo President Barack Obama's motorcade returns from golf as Cheyne Todani, left, holds a sign asking the president to sign a basketball for his son, Friday, Jan. 2, 2015, in Kailua, Hawaii. But as Obama's black armored SUV approached, and the rainbow coincidentally disappeared, it just rolled on by with out stopping. Todani, his wife Miriam Fry and their 7-month-old daughter Cienna looked on as he passed. The president hit the gym and later played a round of golf at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. For dinner, the first family went to the upscale Japanese restaurant Nobu in Waikiki.

--Devin Dwyer An Exclusive Dinner, No Membership Required Thursday, Jan. 1 The first dinner of 2015 for the first couple was a three-hour, multi-course meal at the exclusive Vintage Cave of Waikiki, where the prix fixe menu starts at $295 per person, according to local food blogs. The restaurant also offers $500,000 "memberships," which includes a private wine cellar, discount on meals and an investment stake in the restaurant. Its website says "gifted masters of the culinary arts" prepare bites to please "the most discerning palate." "Secure in the natural embrace of the cave-like environment, guests are encouraged to relax, 'hit reset' and escape the ordinary," the site says. The White House said it was the Obamas' first visit to the restaurant. No word on whether they became members. Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo People vie to see past a secret service agent for a glimpse of the motorcade taking President Barack Obama and the first family to Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Jan. 1, 2015, on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.

Earlier on New Year's Day, the presidential entourage went snorkeling in beautiful Hanauma Bay, which they had entirely to themselves for four and a half hours. Normally the beach and park would be packed with tourists on a holiday. Aides who were also in the waters tell ABC News they were tranquil and fish-filled. While POTUS swam, Coast Guard ships patrolled offshore and Secret Service agents blanketed the hills overlooking the sea. The outing's security measures illustrate the extensive (and expensive) steps to protect presidents when they recreate. Haunama Bay would normally be packed w snorkelers on a holiday. Today, exclusively for Obamas (pic by Arden Farhi) > pic.twitter.com/Cbi62g7Hxk After snorkeling, the Obamas stopped for shave ice at Island Snow, a local joint that's become a family favorite. The president, dressed casually in beachwear, enjoyed a melon/lilikoi/cherry concoction next to his daughter Malia as they mingled with other patrons. Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo President Barack Obama eats shave ice with daughter Malia, at right, at Island Snow, Jan.

1, 2015, in Kailua, in Hawaii during the Obama family vacation. Pool reporter Carol Lee of the Wall Street Journal, who was on scene, noted that one in particular stood out in the crowd: She "had a large parrot on her shoulder and told pool that her husband said he'd give her $1,500 if she got POTUS to hold the parrot on his shoulder. That did not happen." --Devin Dwyer Ending 2014 As It Began Wednesday, Dec. 31 President Obama closed out 2014 the same way he began the year: on the golf course with his old high school pals. After the round, Obama spent the evening at his rental home in Kailua, Hawaii, with family and friends, the White House said. He remained out of sight of reporters' cameras all day, but members of the traveling press pool caught a glimpse of his entourage waiting outside the clubhouse at the Klipper golf course on Marine Corps Base Hawaii. From golf cart to armored SUV. Obama motorcade awaits him at the clubhouse in Kaneohe.

#LastRoundof2014 pic.twitter.com/wOp0GLec97 — devindwyer (@devindwyer) January 1, 2015 All told, Obama completed 54 golf outings this year and 214 since taking office in 2009, according to unofficial White House press corps statistician Mark Knoller of CBS. Meanwhile, on New Year's Eve day, first lady Michelle Obama and daughters Sasha and Malia were off on another adventure, perhaps at the beach for some body surfing. --Devin Dwyer Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo The motorcade carrying President Obama drives to the gym on Dec. 31, 2014, from his rental home in Kailua, Hawaii, during the Obama family vacation. --Devin Dwyer When Being President Intrudes On Your Vacation Sunday, Dec. 28 It's no secret that being President of the United States is a 24/7 gig with no opportunity to fully unplug or unwind. And today, President Obama demonstrated that even in paradise duty calls.

Before hitting the links for his sixth round of golf in nine days, Obama received the presidential daily briefing on the threats facing the country and active crises around the globe. Administration officials say he's also being kept up to date about missing Air Asia flight 8501. The president penned and released a lengthy statement marking the end of combat operations in America's longest war, the 13-year conflict in Afghanistan, and placed a personal call to his Housing Secretary Julian Castro to congratulate him and his wife on the birth of their son. Later, Obama sent a message to his 52 million followers on Twitter to say, "I'm not done." (Translation: I'm not a lame duck.) Read President Obama's latest message to @OFA supporters about fighting alongside him in 2015: — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 28, 2014 --Devin Dwyer Two and a Half Hours at Alan Wong's Saturday, Dec. 27 The Obama family kicked off their second week of vacation in paradise with an afternoon at the beach and dinner at Alan Wong's, one of the most highly-regarded restaurants in Hawaii.

The president, first lady and friends dined for more than two and a half hours, according to pool reporters on scene. Wong's menu features regional cuisine prepared with modern flair, including specialties ginger crusted onaga, pan-steamed opakapaka, and macadamia nut-coconut crusted lamb chops. No word on what the Obamas ordered. While they were eating, White House spokesman Eric Schultz told reporters that Obama had been briefed on the disappearance of Air Asia Flight 8501 and that administration officials were closely monitoring the situation. --Devin Dwyer Back to the (Golf and Beach) Grind on President's Hawaii Trip Friday, Dec. 26 President Obama returned to his routines after the Christmas holiday, heading to the gym - his fourth visit this trip - before heading to the beach with his family and friends - his third visit this trip. He and the family parted ways shortly after midday for the president to get in a long round of golf at Royal Hawaiian Golf Club, his fifth round, for those keeping track. Scenes from a pool van part 2. Look familiar?

A photo posted by Jon Garcia (@garciajond) on Dec 12, 2014 at 10:49pm PST ABC News actually spied the president for about two seconds at the golf course when he made a quick stop in the clubhouse where the press pool was holding during his 5 and a half hour round of golf. It was too quick and unexpected to get a photo but he was dressed in, well, golf attire. As usual, no scores were released, but he had some regulars in his party: Greg Orme, Bobby Titcomb and Mike Ramos. A photo posted by Jon Garcia (@garciajond) on Dec 12, 2014 at 10:53pm PST With the exception of that brief sighting, it was mostly motorcade rides and pretty views. --Jon Garcia How The Obamas Spent Christmas In Hawaii Thursday, Dec. 25 Late this afternoon, as promised, the Obamas made the quick ride over to Marine Corps Base Hawaii (site of POTUS' golfing, bowling, workouts and sometimes beaching) to say thank you to military families. The President has made this trip an annual event and he was joined by Mrs.

Obama. "So on a day when we celebrate the Prince of Peace and many of us count our blessings, one of the greatest blessings we have is the extraordinary dedication and sacrifices you all make," he told the troops. "We could not be more thankful. I know I speak for everyone in the entire country when I say, we salute you." Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo President Barack Obama, with first lady Michelle Obama, points toward a child in the audience as he greets troops and their families on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2014, at Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Obama pointed out that the war in Afghanistan is due to come to a close by year's end. "We've been in continuous war now for over 13 years. Next week we will be ending our combat mission in Afghanistan. Because of the extraordinary service of the men and women in the Armed Forces, Afghanistan has a chance to rebuild its own country. We are safer. It's not going to be a source of terrorist attacks again. And we still have some very difficult missions around the world, including in Iraq. We still have folks in Afghanistan helping the Afghan security forces.

We have people helping to deal with Ebola in Africa and obviously we have folks stationed all around the world. But the world is better, it's safer, it's more peaceful, It's more prosperous and our homeland is protected because of you and the sacrifices each and every day," he said. Before the Obamas went to the base, the family spent about three hours out at the Bellows Air Force Station for a Christmas beach day. This is the second time he's been to that beach this trip. And no gym today -- but, hey, it's Christmas. Mrs. Obama was also apparently in the #TBT spirit, posting a throwback photo to her Instagram account of herself and husband. The undated photo was captioned, "Merry Christmas!" and shows the smiling couple standing next to a decorated tree. A photo posted by First Lady Michelle Obama (@michelleobama) on Dec 12, 2014 at 10:22am PST --Jon Garcia Wednesday, Dec.

24 Golf and Fruity Drink Warnings on Christmas Eve For the first time since President Obama arrived at his vacation home five days ago, the press finally got a brief, up-close interaction with him today – what journalists call a "pool spray." It happened on the 18th green of the Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course (his fourth round this trip, for those keeping count) while he golfed with a new partner: Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo President Barack Obama plays golf with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, right, Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2014, at Marine Corps Base Hawaii's Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course in Kaneohe, Hawaii during the Obama family vacation. One more from pooler Lee Ross. A photo posted by Jon Garcia (@garciajond) on Dec 12, 2014 at 4:44pm PST Asked if he planned on watching the movie "The Interview," which was released online today , Obama smiled and said, "I'm glad it's being released," according to a pool report from Wall Street Journal writer Carol Lee.

Obama also warned press pool members against imbibing certain drinks while in Hawaii. "Be careful about those fruity drinks," he said. "They might have a little kick." The press pool reported that Obama missed a 15-foot putt to the left and Najib missed his putt, too. Obama patted him on the shoulder and told him it was a nice job anyway. Not too far away from the course, Mrs. Obama participated in North American Aerospace Defense Command's "Santa Tracker" program for the fifth year in a row, the White House said. As part of the annual program, the First Lady took calls from kids and kept them updated on where Santa was - amongst other things. One child named Cole asked how President Obama was. "The President is good," Mrs. Obama replied. "He is having a meeting right now with a prime minister somewhere. But he is here in Hawaii. We're here with our family, and everyone is excited for Christmas tomorrow. So I will tell him that you asked how he is doing. I know that he wishes you and your family a very merry Christmas." The common theme in most calls was urging kids to eat veggies and actually go to sleep so Santa can do his work.

For the record: President Obama made it to the gym today, making it three days in a row. --Jon Garcia Tuesday, Dec. 23 Surprise, It's The President! With the rain cleared out, President Obama promptly moved back outdoors for Day Four of his 2014 vacation. Play President Obama Takes A Hike In Hawaii The president started off with an hour-long trip to the gym—two days in a row, Mr. President. Keep it up! He then opted for a 5-hour round of golf at the Kaneohe Klipper course (again). Along for the round were aides and buddies: Greg Orme, Bobby Titcomb & Joe Paulsen. But Obama wasn't done. An hour later his motorcade made its way along scenic oceanside Kalanianaole Highway to eventually arrive at Makapu'u Point Lighthouse trail, where he and daughter Malia and "friends" went for a hike. Because this outing wasn't announced, the U.S. Secret Service doesn't clear out the site, leaving hikers already on the trail—unaware that the President is there—startled to happen upon him and his party.

One woman posted on Instagram about her chance encounter with the president: Just met the president! Shook hands and said #merrychristmas #nobig #Obama actually very cool experience ? A photo posted by fergimom (@fergimom) on Dec 12, 2014 at 6:41pm PST And an eagle-eyed press pool videographer managed to get some shots of Obama on the trail from some distance (where they usually keep us). In one scene Obama, clad in a black polo-style shirt, blue shorts and black sneakers, appears to be giving a small child a piggyback ride, though the press pool advises the White House isn't likely to reveal who the pint-sized ride-hitcher is. Obama finished up his hike around 5:15 pm local time and headed back to his vacation rental. Unfortunately, the press pool wasn't able to witness the terminus of that motorcade movement. The trusty old pool bus had a blowout and was stranded on the side of Kalanianaole Highway. White House aides swear the president made it back to the house safe and sound.

— Carla Bond (@carlabond) December 24, 2014 --Jon Garcia The Traveling White House Day Four hasn't been all play for President Obama. There bits of news here and there to which the White House needed to respond to -- and they did. Early in the day, the White House applauded Sony Pictures decision to show the movie "The Interview" after initially pulling it from release, a move Obama said last Friday was a "mistake." In a written statement, Principle Deputy White House Press Secretary Eric Schultz said: "The President applauds Sony's decision to authorize screenings of the film. As the President made clear, we are a country that believes in free speech, and the right of artistic expression. The decision made by Sony and participating theaters allows people to make their own choices about the film, and we welcome that outcome." Then came word that a Washington, DC judge had tossed out a lawsuit that sought scuttle Obama's executive actions on immigration. Schultz said the White House was vindicated. "Judge Howell's decision today confirms what the Department of Justice and scholars throughout the country have been saying all along: the President's executive actions on immigration are lawful," Schultz said in a statement.

"The Supreme Court and Congress have made clear that federal officials can set priorities in enforcing our immigration laws, and the actions announced by the President are consistent with those taken by administrations of both parties for the last half century. The court correctly dismissed Sheriff Arpaio's lawsuit." Still later in the day, upon news of former President Bush 41's hospitalization, Schultz again took to email to inform reporters that the Obamas were aware of the elder Bush's health condition: "The President has been made aware that President Bush was admitted to the hospital. President Obama and the First Lady send their good wishes to the former President and the entire Bush family during this holiday season." --Jon Garcia Monday, Dec. 22 Rain, Rain Go Away Hours of showers on Oahu kept many inside on Monday. We presume that's what Obama did on much of his third day of vacation. He was out of sight at his vacation rental for the bulk of the day but he did manage to leave twice for two indoor activities: working out and bowling, both on the grounds of the Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

A video posted by Jon Garcia (@garciajond) on Dec 12, 2014 at 11:39am PST How Obama Keeps Private Time Private in Hawaii Obama's second full day on vacation brought – you guessed it – more golf. And it was the same course as yesterday, Marine Corps Base Hawaii. Then, after the links, Obama hit the beach. His motorcade wound south along the eastern edge of the island, moving from one military base to another. With family in tow, he arrived at Bellows Air Force Station, which has one of the prettier beaches on this side of Oahu, locals told us. One of the reasons the president spends so much time on the military bases here is that they offer a level of seclusion, helping keep the security apparatus from impacting the general public and avoiding the long lenses of the press. But for the press, that makes for long days with little opportunity to witness much. What the press sees is mainly through the windows of a 24-passenger bus – and mainly motorcade vehicles coming and going.

As Obama golfed, we spent three hours helping keep the Starbucks on the base afloat by consuming lattes and teas while usurping all available power outlets in the store. At the beach, we had a better view, watching a Coast Guard boat armed with a heavy duty machine gun zip around crystal blue ocean waters, standing guard over the President and his party. USCG boat patrols the waters off Bellows Air Force Station where the Obamas are beaching. #nofilter A photo posted by Jon Garcia (@garciajond) on Dec 12, 2014 at 4:47pm PST The closest we came to actually seeing Obama was as his SUV passed the press van at Bellows beach. Some reporters say they saw him in silhouette wearing a ball cap but that wasn't captured in any photo I took. POTUS vehicle departs Bellows AF Station ... A photo posted by Jon Garcia (@garciajond) on Dec 12, 2014 at 5:36pm PST Though the press didn't actually see Obama, the day wasn't entirely news-free. For the second day in a row, the president was dealing with the murder of several police officers over the weekend.

White House officials told us that Obama called the police commissioners of New York and Philadelphia to express his condolences, condemn the violence and offer assistance in the days ahead. After a short stop at home, the Obamas and friends headed out to dinner at Morimoto in Waikiki Beach. For the press? Some quality time at the Outback Steakhouse across the street and, you may have guessed it, more motorcade taillights. -- Jon Garcia Saturday, Dec. 20 Word From The White House Late tonight in Hawaii -- just after midnight in Washington -- President Obama released the following statement on the killing of two New York City Police officers: "I unconditionally condemn today's murder of two police officers in New York City. Two brave men won't be going home to their loved ones tonight, and for that, there is no justification. The officers who serve and protect our communities risk their own safety for ours every single day - and they deserve our respect and gratitude every single day.

Tonight, I ask people to reject violence and words that harm, and turn to words that heal - prayer, patient dialogue, and sympathy for the friends and family of the fallen." Obama Begins Vacation With Golf -- And News Of A Shooting President Obama kicked off his first full day of vacation in typical fashion: A round of golf. Along with White House aides—and regular golf partners—Mike Brush and Joe Paulsen and childhood friend Bobby Titcomb, the president spent about 4 hours at the Kaneohe Klipper golf club on the grounds of Marine Corps Base Hawaii. As usual, the White House doesn't release the scores. Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo The motorcade carrying President Barack Obama to play golf at Marine Corps Base Hawaii passes a waving child in Kailua, Hawaii, Dec. 20, 2014. 0 Shares Emotional speech – and the Dougie – mark Michelle Obama’s 50th – CNN Political Ticker - CNN.com Blogs As Americans continue to SUFFER the royalty has a ball! January 19, 2014 11:07 am at 11:07 am | B All I want to know is who paid for this ostentatious party during these economic times.

January 19, 2014 11:10 am at 11:10 am | Anonymous @B and Kyle Grimm: For your information, it happens that President Obama actually draws a salary. They have income from books. They pay for their own parties, gifts and all other personal things from their salaries. Unlike Congress, he works all year, even while on their vacations that bug your kind so much. If you are truly concerned about these "economic times" tell it to Cantor who sets the calendar for umpteen vacations he gives to the House. Who pays for their back and forth trips home? We do..........and they don't earn half their salary. Sounds like a great party to me. January 19, 2014 11:30 am at 11:30 am | Marie MD Where to begin. The President is paid for his service to our country. It's like they are the only First Family to ever celebrate a birthday at the WH. Look at history and see how many parties your demi god Reagan and nancy had.

I can bet what the teaklans wasted on the government shut down ($24B) that this party was NOT paid for by taxpayer money. You want to complain about a party? Try your own teaklan party. Most of us will work tomorrow even though it's the MLK holiday. Congress is probably taking the whole week off just like they take most of the summer off and December plus first week of January off to do nothing. January 19, 2014 11:42 am at 11:42 am | Len Anonymous and Marie MD, You are both 100% correct. We are so tired of the GOP and Tea Party folks! Vote them out in 2014. January 19, 2014 11:50 am at 11:50 am | Tampa Tim I want to know if the republicans are going to pay back the $24 billion from their government shut down, the $2 trillion from the tax cuts for the wealthy, the $800 billion for TARP, the trillion from the drug program, and the two trillion for their unnecessary war.

January 19, 2014 11:55 am at 11:55 am | Gurgyl January 19, 2014 12:00 pm at 12:00 pm | shotokan 1 The power of the vote! use it wisely and you will be happy. January 19, 2014 12:32 pm at 12:32 pm | ThinkAgain - If you want Congress to actually do something FOR the American people, vote OUT the Repub/tea bag majority To all the RWNJs out there: Every president holds parties – get over it! Heck, GW did while he was illegally invading Iraq, letting bin Laden slip into Pakistan, and crashing the economy. Where were all your complaints then?

January 19, 2014 01:01 pm at 1:01 pm | ThinkAgain - If you want Congress to actually do something FOR the American people, vote OUT the Repub/tea bag majority If you're looking for "royalty" holding a "ball" while the nation suffers, google the RNC meeting in Hawaii February 2010, when they went there to complain about the Obama Administration's fiscal irresponsibility. January 19, 2014 01:05 pm at 1:05 pm | don in albuquerque 24 Billion lost on a vanity shutdown of the govt. Countless Millions lost during the Iraq War (just lost or stolen). And the GOTP is worried about a party? January 19, 2014 02:42 pm at 2:42 pm | Joseph Mwansa The president works and draws a salary and he and his lovely wife can indeed celebrate a mile stone. Please stop being cheap and nasty. Happy birthday Madam first lady.

We are proud of you here in Africa January 19, 2014 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm | Jeff Brown in Jersey January 19, 2014 03:15 pm at 3:15 pm | The right wing has lost their damned minds I'm glad they had a great time for Michelle's 50th Birthday...Not that often you reach a half of century old.. January 19, 2014 04:20 pm at 4:20 pm |

Question: Tomorrow marks the birthday of our Commander in Chief, Barack Obama. How old will he be?
Answer: 50