They weren’t the most “important” words said today at congressional hearings on President Barack Obama’s new Afghanistan war strategy, but the following snippets were memorable.
Afghanistan and swimming pools:
Defense Secretary Robert Gates: “We’re not just going to throw these guys into the swimming pool … and walk away.”
Senator Joe Lieberman responded: “I appreciate what you said. We’re not just going to throw the Afghans into the pool and — and — and run away until we’re sure that they can swim on their own.”
Remembering Charlie Wilson’s war:
Senator Bill Nelson: “During the ’70s and the ’80s I had the privilege of serving with Congressman Charlie Wilson in the House of Representatives.” 
Nelson says to Gates: “I am so happy to see in your statement and I quote you, ‘We will not repeat the mistakes of 1989 when we abandon the country only to see it descend into civil war and then into Taliban hands.’
