Congresswoman Hirono spent some time with Hawaii troops in Fallujah and said she was impressed with their commitment and their professionalism.

"They live in the communities and they're working to help them with economic development, such as trying to raise chickens for sale, that sort of thing," said Hirono.

She says economic development and education are the main things that will help Iraq become more independent, which will then allow the troops to come home.

"Where we can change our mission to what I hope will be a multi- national effort to help the Iraqis rebuild their country. They need to create economic options for their people, there's 40 percent unemployment there," said Hirono.

Hirono met with the top commander of U-S forces, General David Petraeus. She was informed that violence is down and Iraqi troops are doing better at protecting their country, which she considers a milestone. But she wouldn't go with the Republican line that the surge is working.

"The bottom line for me is if the violence is down and their military capability is up then that creates a scenario where we can bring our troops home safely," said Hirono.

Hirono calls the trip an eye opener. It was also a chance to reconnect with family. Navy Lieutenant Commander Mike Itakura is a second cousin who serves as a staff member for General Patraeus.

"Oh I haven't seen him in a long time because he lives on the mainland but he went to the Naval Academy, we're very proud of him," said Hirono.