President Obama Thanks Troops and Military Families at Camp Pendleton

President Barack Obama delivers remarks to troops during a rally at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., Aug. 7, 2013. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

President Obama traveled to Camp Pendleton today to visit with troops and their families and thank them for their extraordinary service to our nation.

“I’m here because, for more than a decade, you -— and all our men and women in uniform -— have borne the burden in this time of war,” President Obama said.

After our nation was attacked, you were some of the very first conventional forces in Afghanistan -— racing in, hundreds of miles by helicopter, toppling that regime and driving al Qaeda from its camps. Then when the fight shifted to Iraq, you were there -— racing toward Baghdad and deposing a dictator. And through years of combat -— in Tikrit, Fallujah and Ramadi -— your courage added to the glories of the Marines’ long and illustrious history.

President Obama also called on Congress to agree on a responsible plan that reduces our deficits but also keeps our military strong, which includes caring for wounded warriors, military families, and service members who transition to civilian life.

“That’s what you deserve,” President Obama said. “That’s what your families deserve. That's what I’m fighting for and that is my commitment to you.”