President George W. Bush and the First Lady, Laura Bush, made a surprise visit here March 1 to remind troops their mission in Afghanistan is still an important fight in the global war on terrorism.

“You are fighting an enemy and bringing them to justice so they won’t hurt our fellow citizens again,” he said. “That mission requires steadfast determination.”

He praised Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines and Department of Defense civilians for standing up to serve their country after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

“You saw our nation was attacked and when your country called you gladly served,” he said. “This government will not blink, we will not yield. We are on the right course and the world will be a better place because of your service. God bless you for protecting our country.”

Earlier, President Bush met with Afghan President Hamid Karzai in Kabul. He said Karzai was thankful for the military serving to protect freedom and democracy in Afghanistan.

“(Karzai) recognizes his country wants democracy,” President Bush said. “We will be calling the Afghan government a democracy in the interest of their children and their grandchildren. From the lightness to the darkness, we will achieve what is possible when freedom arises.”