In Afghanistan, Obama tells troops "you inspire me"

  • 10 years ago
ROUGH CUT (NO REPORTER NARRATION)

STORY: Wearing an Air Force One bomber jacket, Obama told troops in Afghanistan "I thank you as your Commander in Chief, because you inspire me."

His visit came as a surprise during the Memorial Day holiday weekend in the United States.

"I'm also here representing 300 million Americans who want to say thank you as well," Mr. Obama added.

Obama had no plans to visit the Afghan capital Kabul or meet Afghan President Hamid Karzai or other government officials during a trip expected to last only a few hours.

Obama left Washington under cover of darkness on Saturday night and flew for more than 13 hours to arrive at Bagram on Sunday night local time.