The Investigation Gold Star Families Deserve
WASHINGTON, DC — Today, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a comprehensive review into the Biden administration's disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, which tragically claimed the lives of thirteen brave American service members.
Republican Study Committee (RSC) members released the following statements in support of the investigation by U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth:
“The Afghanistan withdrawal was a catastrophic failure that humiliated America and left thirteen of our brave warriors dead at Abbey Gate," said RSC Chairman August Pfluger (TX-11). "While terrorists celebrated with our abandoned equipment, bureaucrats hid behind classified reports and finger-pointing. That ends now. President Trump promised accountability, and that's exactly what this Special Review Panel will deliver. As an F-22 pilot who served in the fight against ISIS, I know firsthand the dangers posed to this nation by emboldened terrorist organizations. We will rip through their deception, expose who gave the fatal orders, and deliver the justice our Gold Star families deserve."
“I applaud Secretary Hegseth for pursuing accountability for President Biden’s disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. His failed exit led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members, reversed two decades of hard-fought progress, and handed the Taliban billions in taxpayer-funded weapons. The American people, and especially the families of those who served and sacrificed, deserve answers," said RSC Vice-Chair Ben Cline (VA-06).
"I’m pleased to see Secretary Hegseth take action to investigate the Biden administration's decisions leading to the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan that resulted in the death of 13 U.S. service members and more than 100 civilians. Their families and the American people deserve answers, and we must make sure such recklessness does not happen again,” Rep. Chuck Edwards (NC-11).
“The disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan is a defining symbol of the Biden Administration’s failures. This chaotic retreat cost American lives, emboldened our enemies, and shattered trust in U.S. leadership on the global stage. I strongly applaud the decisive leadership of President Trump and Secretary Hegseth, who are steadfastly committed to ensuring such a catastrophic betrayal of our values and security never happens again," said Rep. Mark Harris (NC-08).
“I commend Secretary Hegseth for ordering this review of Joe Biden’s disastrous handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan. The American people are owed answers for the self-inflicted chaos and disorder brought about by the previous administration. Above all, the families of the thirteen service members who lost their lives at Abbey Gate will finally have their voices heard by their government," said Rep. Greg Steube (FL-17).