Ed's Extended Stay in Iraq and Possible Return

Back in August I reported to you all that while had returned to Alaska from Iraq, his brigade, the 172nd Striker Brigade had their stay in Iraq extended by the Army.

Thanks to Mom for forwarding the following article to me.

WASHINGTON–A brigade team from Texas will leave for Iraq a month early to set the stage for the return of Fort Wainwright’s 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, the U.S. Army told members of Congress on Monday.

“The 4th Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division will deploy 30 days earlier than originally scheduled and begin their deployment in late October,” the Army said in a news release. The combat team is based in Fort Bliss, Texas.

The Army gave additional information to all members of Congress Monday stating that the early deployment will allow the 172nd Stryker team to begin their return. The Army did not provide a specific timeline to Congress, however.

“We’re encouraged about this news,” said Kevin Sweeney, spokesman for Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska. “This is a move that will allow for the commitment to bring the troops home within 120 days.”

Soldiers in the 172nd Stryker team were told, just days before they were preparing to return to Alaska in late July, that their one-year tour in Iraq would be extended. Some soldiers had already returned to Alaska and were sent back to Iraq.