FORT BRAGG — The president and first lady are heading to North Carolina next week to talk to soldiers at Fort Bragg.

The White House said President Obama will give a speech Wednesday about his decision to finish the war in Iraq at the end of the month and what it means for the nation’s future.

Obama plans to thank U.S. military members around the world and their families for the sacrifices they made to keep the country safe. He will be joined by his wife, Michelle.

The choice of Fort Bragg in North Carolina could be a strategic one for Obama. It will be his fourth visit to the traditionally Republican state since June. The president won North Carolina in 2008, and the state figures to be important in his re-election plans.