From CENTCOM, news that the United States is extending its mission in Afghanistan by 3200 troops for 120 extra days. Every little bit helps, and I’m sure the Canadian military, currently leading the NATO mission over there, appreciates it.
Some 3,200 soldiers of the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, will have their tour in Afghanistan extended for up to 120 additional days, Defense Department officials announced today.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates approved the extension was based on the recommendations of commanders on the ground, whom Gates visited last week, Bryan Whitman, a DoD spokesman, said. The extension will provide military capability for NATO to build on the success achieved in promoting stability and security in Afghanistan while denying safe haven for the Taliban, he said.
“What is certain is that Secretary Gates is very interested in ensuring that the successes that we’ve achieved in Afghanistan are not lost, and that commanders on the ground have sufficient forces to build upon the successes that we’ve achieved so far in Afghanistan,” Whitman said.
Excellent article on the eye-opening experiences of a liberal
