Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski will spend Veteran's Day in Iraq.  The surprise visit is his third trip to the war-torn country. 

The Governor arrived Tuesday and spent the day visiting with Oregon National Guard members in Baghdad.

There are more than 3000 Oregon soldiers currently serving in Iraq. 

Kulongoski spoke on a conference call with reporters.  A veteran himself, he said getting the chance to meet with the troops makes the long journey worthwhile.

Ted Kulongoski: "I can tell you, the reason I do it and every governor does, these soldiers are just so happy to see the commander in chief.  And I can even say, to see somebody from home."

Kulongoski's trip was arranged and paid for by the U.S. Department of Defense. He's traveling with three other governors. 

Kulongoski says he visited with Oregon troops in Kuwait on his way to Iraq.

He said he couldn't say how much longer he'd be in the Middle East but hinted it would be several more days.