Antiwar protests were held around the country on Saturday to call for the end of the U.S. war and occupation in Iraq. In Washington, speakers included congressman and presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich.

Rep. Dennis Kucinich: “The president has been saying there is no plan. But I’ve offered a 12-point plan, and elements of it have been out there for three full years. Our plan is peace. Our plan is to end the occupation. Our plan is to bring the troops home.”

United for Peace and Justice estimated 500,000 took part in the demonstration in Washington. The police gave no official estimate. Thousands also protested in other cities. In Los Angeles, speakers included Marine Sergeant Jason LeMieux, who has served three deployments in Iraq.

Marine Sgt. Jason LeMieux: “It’s over. We lost, and it’s time to bring the troops home before more are killed in a pointless, unwinnable bloodbath. And you’re the ones who are going to make that happen. Thank you.”

Another antiwar march is scheduled in Washington on March 17 to mark the fourth anniversary of the invasion of Iraq.