Rapid Pullout From Iraq Urged by Key Democrat - New York Times

Rapid Pullout From Iraq Urged by Key Democrat - New York Times: "

Representative John P. Murtha of Pennsylvania, a Vietnam combat veteran who voted for the Iraq war, said that after more than two years of combat, American forces had united a disparate array of insurgents in a seemingly endless cycle of violence that was impeding Iraq's progress toward stability and self-governance. He said the 153,000 American troops in Iraq should be pulled out within six months.
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'Our troops have become the primary target of the insurgency,' said Mr. Murtha, who visited Iraq in late August. 'We have become a catalyst for the violence.'

If approved by the House and Senate, Mr. Murtha's resolution would force the president to withdraw United States troops 'at the earliest practicable date,' which he said could be six months. Under his plan, the Pentagon would retain a quick-reaction force in the region, as well as marines within a few sailing days.

When asked about Mr. Cheney's remarks on Wednesday, Mr. Murtha replied sarcastically: 'I like guys who've never been there that criticize us who've been there. I like that. I like guys who got five deferments and never been there and send people to war and then don't like to hear suggestions about what needs to be done.'

In the Vietnam era, Mr. Cheney had five deferments and did not serve in the military."