Calvey: U. S. Is Winning War In Iraq

Members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives enjoyed a rare opportunity to communicate with a former colleague today, as former state Rep. Kevin Calvey, now serving in Iraq, joined House members via telephone.

"This was an opportunity for House members to express our appreciation to Captain Calvey for his incredible service to our country," said Speaker Lance Cargill, R-Harrah. "Serving in the Legislature may be demanding, but it's obviously nothing compared to service in an actual war zone, and we wanted to say thanks."

Lawmakers spoke to Calvey by phone in the House chamber today. Calvey said his days start early and run long, averaging about 78 hours of work each week, with just a half-day off each week. "Working or sleeping or working out, that's about all we do," Calvey said. He told lawmakers the United States is winning the war in Iraq and an "overwhelming majority of Iraqis, 70 percent or more, don't want us to leave right now" due to the threat of chaos if the United States withdraws immediately. He said other countries, such as Iran and Syria, would likely attack Iraq should American troops withdraw before the nation is fully stabilized.

Graphic courtesy The Oklahoman

Share |