HOUSTON (AP) - Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay told a group of soldiers Saturday night that withdrawing troops from Iraq now would be "a death warrant for Americans in future terrorist attacks."

"Iraq right now is the central front on the war on terror, whether we like it or not," DeLay told about 200 soldiers and their families at a banquet held in their honor. "Our choice is not between different visions of victory but between victory and surrender. Only one choice is worth the legacy of the United States and the heroes she has lost in this conflict. Victory is our choice."

At least one protester stood outside during Saturday night's event, holding up a sign criticizing DeLay's stance on the war and calling for troops to come home.

Calls to begin withdrawing troops from Iraq gained momentum last month when Democratic Rep. John Murtha of Pennsylvania, a decorated Vietnam veteran and longtime military supporter, called for a change of direction, saying continued military action in Iraq isn't in the best interests of the United States.

Republican Rep. Jean Schmidt of Ohio added fuel to the fire when she said on the House floor that she had a message for Murtha from a Marine: "Cowards cut and run, Marines never do." The comment caused an uproar, and other Democrats have since echoed Murtha's concerns.

On Saturday, DeLay said talk of troop withdrawal by Democrats, whom he described as the "cut and run caucus," was the wrong thing to do.

"America is America because we don't quit in the face of overwhelming odds," the Texas Republican said. He said Iraqi elections and increasing numbers of U.S.-trained Iraqi troops are signs of success.

The banquet was sponsored by the nonprofit Impact Player Partners, which brings troops together with celebrities, to honor members of the 451st Civil Affairs Battalion, an Army Reserve unit based outside Houston.

Houston Astros pitcher Roger Clemens was among those thanking the soldiers and their families for their hard work and sacrifice.

"You guys are not forgotten in what you do," Clemens said.

At least 185 Texas service members and more than 2,100 U.S. troops in all have died since the war began in March 2003, according to the Department of Defense.

DeLay made no mention of his ongoing legal battles. He was indicted in a campaign finance investigation, accused of illegally funneling corporate donations to Texas candidates. He denies the charges against him