(July 4, 2007)--President Bush was back at the White House Wednesday afternoon after spending the morning in Martinsburg, W. Va. where he thanked the men and women of the armed forces for their service, especially as the Nation prepares to celebrate the Fourth of July.

The President told the audience gathered at the West Virginia National Guard facility how important it is to succeed in Iraq.

Mr. Bush reminded Americans that it will take continued patience and more sacrifice, but he warned it's vital to the security of the US and the Middle East that al Qaeda insurgents in Iraq be defeated.

The Iraq War has become a focal point for lawmakers as even key Republican leaders like Sen. Richard Lugar, R-Indiana, have said the war strategy in Iraq isn’t working.

The President's annual Fourth of July remarks also come as Democratic and Republican presidential candidates gear up for the 2008 elections, a race in which Iraq is sure to be a major part of candidates' platforms.

Click Here For White House Web Site

More Local And State News >>More National News >>More Business News >>Sports >> Weather >>