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(White House-AP) -- President Bush is thanking U-S troops for their efforts in Iraq.
In a videotaped message being beamed to U-S forces around the world, the president says they "stand tall in times of conflict" and "stand ready in times of peace." He also says the war has shown that U-S forces act with "great skill, courage and humanity."
He says the welcome Iraqi people have given American forces is a testament to their character.
Noting it's an all-volunteer military, the president says every serviceman and woman and their families deserve the thanks of the nation. The president also stresses the nation will never forgot those who died serving their country. He says Americans owe them "our freedom."
(Copyright 2003 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
