[Saddam Hussein] is a threat because he is dealing with al-Qaeda. . . . A true threat facing our country is that an al-Qaeda-type network trained and armed by Saddam could attack America and not leave one fingerprint.

In some cases, the measured use of force is all that protects us from a chaotic world ruled by force.

Today we affirm a new commitment to live out our nation's promise through civility, courage, compassion and character.

There is a language barrier between vets and the civilian population. They speak different languages.

The will of the United States can be shaken by suiciders and suiciders who are willing to drive up to a Red Cross center, a center of international help and aid and comfort, and just kill. [...] The strategy remains the same. The tactics to respond to more suiciders driving cars will alter on the ground.

Something that is completely unwinnable. I mean, it becomes unwinnable if we decide to leave [Afghanistan].

The lesson of September the 11th is: Take threats before they fully materialize.