Oklahoma Second District Congressman Visits Troops In Afghanistan

Markwayne Mullin's office said the Oklahoma congressman spent the Memorial Day holiday weekend visiting troops in Afghanistan.

"It was a real pleasure to be able to visit with our troops stationed in Afghanistan, especially during a time when we pay tribute to our fallen soldiers," said Mullin. "I was encouraged to see the great work our troops are doing overseas to protect our country and provide security abroad."

Mullin was part of a bipartisan congressional delegation which also met with Afghan National Security Forces officials and US Ambassador James Cunningham to talk about future of combat missions and national security.

"Afghanistan is entering a pivotal moment with the upcoming Presidential election and U.S. troop drawdown, and I was glad to see evidence that Afghan people are confidently taking charge. Both Ambassador Cunningham and General Dunford expressed how well the ANSF has taken over security operations, particularly during the recent April elections. It's vital that the U.S. military continues to act as a training and advisory recourse during this transition period, but the large majority of the security work is already being handle by Afghan forces. The ANSF's ability to take on this responsibility has become source of pride for both Afghan and U.S. forces," said Congressman Markwayne Mullin.

The delegation was led by Minnesota Republican Michele Bachmann and included Florida Representative Patrick Murphy, New York Representative Sean Maloney, Georgia Representative John Barrow, and Texas Representative Pete Gallego.