Obama gives farewell speech to armed forces

President Obama delivered an impassioned farewell speech to the armed forces on Wednesday, thanking all the brave men and women in uniform who have sworn to protect this country.

After expressing his gratitude toward a number of different officials, including Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter and Vice President Joe Biden, Obama went on to say that “there has been no greater privilege, and no greater honor, than serving as the Commander-in-Chief of the greatest military in the history of the world.”

At a moment in our history “when less than one percent of Americans wear the uniform” and “fewer Americans know someone who serves,” Obama said he has found it particularly inspiring to witness the daily sacrifices these men and women “make on our behalf.” For all their bravery and devotion, these men and women have truly earned their “place among the greatest generations.”

Highlighting some of the military’s greatest accomplishments during his presidency, Obama thanked the service men and women for their efforts in the global war on terror, the ongoing fight against ISIL, saving lives during the Ebola crisis, and helping to scale down the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Obama expressed his confidence that the “United States and our Armed Forces will remain the greatest force for freedom and security that the world has ever known.” The president then once again thanked all the men and women who have served before ending his speech.

“We can’t say it enough and we can’t show it enough,” Obama said. “It has been a privilege of a lifetime to work with you.”