US Army to send 1700 paratroops to Iraq early in 2017
US troops. File photo.
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) The US Army announced on Wednesday, that it will deploy 1,700 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division early in 2017, in order to provide aid to Iraqi security forces currently trying to retake the city of Mosul from the Islamic State (ISIS) militants.
The 82nd Airborne’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, will deploy to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to take part in Operation Inherent Resolve, according to an Army press release.
The unit (known as Falcon Brigade) will replace the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, in training, advising and assisting the Iraqi forces.
“The 2nd Brigade Combat Team is highly trained, disciplined and fit,” said Col. Patrick Work, commander of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne.
“Readiness is our top priority; our paratroopers are prepared for this deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Our team looks forward to this important mission and our opportunity to assist our Iraqi partners,” Work added.