“While there are still some concerns with provisions in this bill, and particularly in its House counterpart, I commend Senators Levin and McCain for working to address many of them, and I expect the remaining issues to be resolved in conference.”

“Bravery and courage come in many forms, and on this Veterans Day we honor the men and women who have exhibited these virtues in service to our nation and to the American people. In each decade, there are those who threaten our nation’s freedoms. In times of duress and in the face of immense challenges, servicemen and women displayed strength and fortitude to preserve our democracy. Our veterans are the truest American heroes, and as we honor all them today we must also pause to remember the countless individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice and laid down their lives for their country.

“Nevada is home to one of our nation’s fastest growing veterans communities. I am proud to celebrate the nearly 300,000 veterans in the Silver State who protected our freedoms. On the beaches of Normandy, in Kabul, Baghdad, and in countless other places, Nevadans and millions of brave American soldiers went into the crosshairs of danger to fight under our nation’s flag. When these individuals enlisted, their government promised to look after them and their families. This is a solemn vow that we must always uphold.

“As more troops return from duty and transition into civilian life we must stand ready to give them every chance possible to thrive. No veteran should ever find themselves out of work, homeless, or struggling, and in recent years I have led Senate Democrats to work with Republicans to ensure veterans have access to the highest quality health services and that they have opportunities to find jobs when they return home.

“When the vitality of our veterans is strong, our communities and our nation is made stronger. I extend heartfelt thanks to veterans everywhere for their significant contributions to our country.”

“One year ago, President Obama gave the order that brought Osama bin Laden to justice. That day, terrorist organizations that threaten our country received an unmistakable message: the United States will act against those that wish to harm us and attack our way of life.

“The brave military and intelligence professionals who carried out this operation achieved the most significant victory to date in our nation’s fight against al-Qaeda and terrorism. Their courage and their commitment to justice helped bring solace to our nation after a painful chapter in our history.

“Each day Americans deal with sadness and torment inflicted by terrorism, and today we remember loved ones and friends who tragically lost their lives to acts of terror directed by Osama bin Laden. We will always remember the courageous Americans who gave their lives to defend our country from his peril.

“While al-Qaeda’s leader is gone, the organization remains a threat and is motivated to bring harm to our nation, and we will never hesitate to use the full extent of our power to stop the threat of terrorism.”

“The President’s plan to begin withdrawing troops from Afghanistan is a critical step in the right direction. I commend the many brave members of our Armed Forces who have served there and thank them for their sacrifice. I look forward to the day when all of our courageous fighting men and women are safely home.

“Under the President’s leadership we have made substantial progress toward achieving many of our major strategic goals in the region, including bringing Osama bin Laden to justice and significantly weakening al Qaeda’s terrorist capabilities.

“We have also helped put the Afghan government in a position to begin to take responsibility for its own security in a growing number of key areas. As we withdraw our troops, the Afghans must continue to step up and take responsibility for their own country. In the meantime, we must capitalize on the progress we’ve made in Afghanistan to finish the job and ensure al Qaeda’s long-term, strategic defeat. The President’s plan will allow us to do that, while beginning the important transfer of security and governance responsibilities to the Afghan people.”