"Good news to the men and women who fought ... their mission is complete."
May 1, 2003, on the USS Abraham Lincoln, announcing the end of major combat operations in Iraq
"There are some who feel like - that the conditions are such that they can attack us there [in Iraq]. My answer is, bring 'em on! We've got the force necessary to deal with the security situation." July 2, 2003
"A turning point will come two weeks from today." June 16, 2004
"Tomorrow the world will witness a turning point in the history of Iraq, a milestone in the advance of freedom, and a crucial advance in the war on terror." January 29, 2005, one day before Iraq elections
"I'm absolutely confident that the actions we took in Iraq are influencing reformers and freedom lovers in the greater Middle East. And I believe that you're going to see the rise of democracy in many countries in the broader Middle East, which will lay the foundation for peace." June 2005
"2005 will be recorded as a turning point in the history of Iraq ... and the history of freedom." December 12, 2005
"I think - tide turning - see, as I remember - I was raised in the desert, but tides kind of - it's easy to see a tide turn - did I say those words?" June 14, 2006
"Our country is pursuing a new strategy in Iraq, and I ask you to give it a chance to work. And I ask you to support our troops in the field, and those on their way." January 2007
"I want to say a word to our troops and civilians in Iraq. You've performed with incredible skill under demanding circumstances. The turnaround you have made possible in Iraq is a brilliant achievement in American history.
"And while this war is difficult, it is not endless." April 10, 2008
