On September 11, 2001, the course of my life changed. I was sitting in a break room at the University of Florida’s law school when I watched the horror unfold. That day, I felt the call to serve our country. I went on to enlist in the U.S. Army and eventually deployed to Iraq.

I’m not the only one with a story like this. Many patriots, after that day, selflessly answered the call to serve and defend our nation against the cowardly terrorists. I can only imagine how they feel after seeing the Taliban back in power and the chaotic scenes taking place in Kabul.

We are 10 days into our rescue mission, and we still have thousands of Americans stranded in Afghanistan desperate to get back home while President Biden is focused on addressing the media to discuss masks and vaccinations.

Biden’s legacy will be known as the Taliban hoisting their flag while wearing American uniforms and using our equipment and weapons. Making a complete mockery out of our dedicated Marines.

It is every elected official’s duty to ensure American safety, and if our President doesn’t step up to the plate, then I will.

This is not a Republican or Democrat issue; this is about Americans. That’s why I’m teaming up with a California Democrat to demand Congress and the White House get every single American out of Afghanistan by any means necessary because it is my duty.

With the Taliban back in power, a humanitarian crisis at the airport, and the Taliban in possession of military equipment - President Biden is brushing off the failures hoping the public will just “lose interest.”

Let me be clear – getting every American back on our soil is and will be the top priority until they are safely back home. No one will be losing any interest. Once we get them home, we must focus on getting our military equipment far-far away from the Taliban’s grasp.

Rep. Greg Steube, R-Sarasota, represents House District 17 in Congress.