Vice President Dick Cheney arrives on an unannounced visit to Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan, and is greeted by US Army Major General David M. Rodriguez (L) of the 82nd Airborne. Cheney said Thursday that Pakistan's new government had a duty to battle extremists and that he was confident they would, as he made a surprise visit to neighbouring Afghanistan.
Vice President Dick Cheney, right, reenlists six service members during a ceremony at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Thursday, March 20, 2008.
Five U.S. service medals presented by Vice President Dick Cheney are seen displayed Thursday, March 20, 2008 during Vice President Cheney's visit to Bagram Air Base. "We know the work is hard, we know the conditions are tough, we know the deployments are hard on families," said the Vice President to U.S. troops, adding, "But we're impressed beyond measure by all of the accomplishments that you've made." From left, the U.S. Army Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, two Bronze Star Medals and a Silver Star Medal. White House photo by David Bohrer
Vice President Dick Cheney addresses U.S. troops Thursday, March 20, 2008, during a dinner at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. During his remarks the Vice President said, "A lot of history is being made here every single day. Much of the credit goes to all of you. The President and I get regular briefings on the action here, and we don't take you for granted for a single moment." White House photo by David Bohrer
Vice President Dick Cheney, right, speaks with Silver Star recipient Spc. Monica Brown, second from left, and her brother, Spc. Justin Brown, left, following an award ceremony at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Thursday, March 20, 2008. U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney on Thursday called his country's commitment to Afghanistan "firm and unshakable" and said members of NATO need to step up their commitment to help it continue to rebound from years of tyranny and war.
Vice President Dick Cheney shares a light moment with 19-year-old Silver Star Medal recipient U.S. Army Specialist Monica Brown, center right, during a dinner with U.S. troops Thursday, March 20, 2008 at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. Joining the Vice President and Spc. Brown are from left: TSgt. Vernon Jones; Army Commendation Medal for Valor recipient Spc. Charles Bell; and Spc. Brown's brother, infantryman Justin Brown. White House photo by David Bohrer