Congressman George Whitesides Joins Bipartisan Delegation to Visit American Servicemembers in the Middle East and Strengthen U.S. Diplomacy Abroad

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 22nd, 2025

Contact: Natalie Gould (natalie.gould@mail.house.gov)

WASHINGTON, D.C. -Last week, Congressman George Whitesides (CA-27) joined members of the House Armed Service Committee, including Ranking Member Rep. Adam Smith (WA-09), Rep. Michael Baumgartner (WA-05), Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), and Rep. Wesley Bell (MO-01), on a bipartisan Congressional delegation (CODEL) to engage with American servicemembers in the Middle East and strengthen U.S. foreign relations.

"After returning from the CODEL, I am even more inspired by the bravery and dedication of our U.S. military forces," said Rep. Whitesides. "From the young 19-year-old Marine on his first deployment to the experienced three-star general overseeing our national security operations, their commitment to our country and our safety is unparalleled. I am also deeply touched by the support provided by individuals like Chaplain Hansard from Palmdale, who offers crucial counsel and strength to service members, helping them navigate the challenges they face while carrying out their vital work."

Congressman George Whitesides and members of the House Armed Service Committee meet with U.S. and NATO OIR Armed Forces Members in Baghdad.

Congressman George Whitesides spends time with U.S. service members stationed in Iraq.

The CODEL travelled to Iraq to meet U.S. armed forces service members, thank them for their work, and discuss how Congress can best support their mission to protect the United States and ensure stability and peace abroad.

Congressman Whitesides continued his diplomatic work with a visit to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad before heading to Qatar to meet with ambassadors at the U.S. Embassy in Doha. To conclude their trip, the CODEL travelled to the United Arab Emirates and met with international leaders in the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and visited the Al Dhafra Air Base.

Congressman George Whitesides speaks with a U.S. service member.

As a member of the House Armed Service Committee, Congressman George Whitesides is focused on ensuring the U.S. military is equipped to meet evolving global security demands. He will use the valuable information and insights gained from the CODEL to advance his work supporting servicemembers across California's 27th District, and advocating for national security priorities in Congress.

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