By Julie Mason
Examiner White House Correspondent
“I love you back,” Obama told troops at Camp Victory
President Obama’s surprise-ish trip to Iraq continues, with some quick remarks and a meet-and-greet with troops. Richard Wolf of USA Today is the print pool reporter on the trip — the rest of the traveling press corps is back in Istanbul. Here are some of the deets Wolf sent from the scene:
At 6:08 pm Obama emerged from the Rotunda Room where he was meeting with Jones, Odierno and others and talked into the glitzy, over-the-top main room where troops were gathered. Huge chandelier, intricate gold work, etc.
Odierno introduced Obama at 6:09; Obama spoke for just 6 minutes. As he entered, they piped in “Hail to the Chief.”
Troops holding digital cameras over their heads by the scores. Huge American flag as backdrop behind president.
“Thanks to all of you,” Obama said. “I am so honored.” Someone called out “I love you,” Obama says, “I love you back.”
“I’m not going to talk long because I want to shake as many hands as I can,” Obama said.
He thanks the troops for their service, noting the strain, sacrifice and controversy amid difficult politics. Obama called turning Iraq into a fledgling democracy an “extraordinary achievement.”
He said Iraqis need to take responsibility for their country, and that transition will come over the next 18 months.
“Michelle and myself are with you every day,” Obama said.
