FORT DIX, N.J. (AP) – President Barack Obama is observing the end of combat operations in Afghanistan by visiting U.S. troops at a New Jersey air base that has been a launching point for deployments and the scene of emotional returns for many service members.
Obama arrived at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst on Monday and was greeted by Republican Gov. Chris Christie. Obama and the potential 2016 presidential candidate shared a laugh and a long handshake before heading to the event designed to express gratitude to the troops ahead of the holidays.
U.S. and NATO troops closed their operational command in Afghanistan last week after 13 years of war. Some troops will remain, however, to carry out operations against Taliban and al-Qaida targets.
The base has also been used to send service members to West Africa to help confront the Ebola crisis.