Batallon Cuscatlan Reception
September 20, 2005

Good evening.  It is an honor for me to welcome you to the Residence this evening.   As I have said many times, El Salvador has been an outstanding member of the Coalition in Operation Iraqi Freedom for the past two years.  During five consecutive rotations, you, the soldiers of the Cuscatlán Batallion, have bravely and effectively carried out your duties.  You have earned the respect of the entire Coalition and the deep gratitude of the Iraqi people.

The Government and people of the United States are extremely grateful for your service – service that has cost the lives of two of your comrades.  You have put your lives at risk to help the Iraqi people.

You have also saved the lives of U.S. officers and for such acts of heroism, six members of the Second Rotation were awarded the Bronze Star decoration by Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld.

I wanted to thank you personally for all you have done.  You have won the hearts of the Iraqi people and you have brought honor to the name of El Salvador around the world.

Thank you  so very much