President Obama announced a formal end to the U.S. war in Iraq, stating that all American troops would be out of the country by Dec. 31, 2011.

"After nearly nine years, America's war in Iraq will be over," the president declared.

President Obama also outlined that he had spoken with Iraq's prime minister, Noori al-Maliki, about how the U.S. might provide equipment and training to Iraqi troops in the future, " just as we offer training and assistance to countries around the world."

At the end of his speech announcing the troop exit, President Obama added that his administration's new focus will be finding jobs and secure futures for the veterans returning home, especially in the current tough economy.

The first three minutes of this video shows President Obama announcing the troop drawdown, while the rest is a discussion with U.S. deputy national security adviser Dennis McDonough about the move.

"Over the next two months, our troops in Iraq, tens of thousands of them, will pack up their gear and board convoys for the journey home. The last American soldier will cross the border out of Iraq with their heads held high, proud of their success, and knowing that the American people stand united in our support for our troops. That is how America's military efforts in Iraq will end." - President Obama

1. What part of the world is Iraq in? What do you know about that country?

2. How is the U.S. involved in Iraq?

3. What wars has the U.S. been involved in during the past 10 years?

1. Do you think it's a good idea for U.S. troops to leave Iraq? Why or why not?

2. What do you know about the history of the U.S. presence in Iraq? How did it begin, and why?

3. Do you know anyone who is fighting or has fought in Iraq? How do you think they would feel about this announcement?