82nd brigade prepares for Iraq deployment

[unhappycamper]

82nd brigade prepares for Iraq deployment
By Kevin Maurer - The Associated Press
Posted : Tuesday Nov 18, 2008 21:43:54 EST

FORT BRAGG, N.C. — The 82nd Airborne Division’s 3rd Brigade will use the U.S. presidential election as an example of how democracy works as they mentor the Iraqi army and police, Col. Timothy McGuire said Tuesday.

The 3,500 paratroopers from Fort Bragg will leave this month for a yearlong deployment to Iraq, where McGuire said they will focus on working with and training the Iraqis. The brigade’s departure will mark the start of a new round of Iraq deployments for 82nd Airborne paratroopers.

“Our main effort will be partnership,” McGuire said. “We are trying to work ourselves out of a job. Everyday the Iraqi security forces get stronger.”

The Iraqi Cabinet plans to hold provincial elections Jan. 31 with a campaign period set to begin Dec. 1. McGuire said the election will bring the Iraqis one step closer to self rule and sustainable security, and the troops a day closer to coming home.

“It is another sign that we are succeeding and gains are being made,” McGuire said. “With our first month it will really be our focal point, and once again will be assisting the Iraqi security forces in securing and ensuring a secure environment for the elections to take place.”


Rest of article at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/11/ap_82nd_iraq_111808/%2e



uhc comment: Just to clear the water from from your baffles:

There were 132,000 boots on the ground in Iraq at the beginning of the escalation.
There are 151,000 boots on the ground in Iraq as you read this.