DoD Announces Afghanistan Force Deployment
February 17, 2009

Pursuant to President Obama’s decision today, Secretary Gates ordered the deployment of two additional combat units, totaling more than 12,000 troops, to Afghanistan. The 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB), from Camp Lejeune, N.C., with approximately 8,000 Marines will deploy to Afghanistan in late Spring 2009.

The 5th Stryker Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division from Ft. Lewis, Wash., will deploy approximately 4,000 soldiers to Afghanistan in mid-summer 2009. This Stryker Brigade and the MEB will deploy to increase the capabilities of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

Approximately 5,000 additional troops to support these combat forces will receive deployment orders at a later date.

DoD will continue to announce major unit deployments when they are approved. For additional information on the Marine Expeditionary Brigade, contact Marine Corps Public Affairs at (703) 614-4309. For additional information on the Army brigade, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 614-2487.