The United States military announced Wednesday that most active duty army units now in Iraq and Afghanistan and those sent in the future would serve 15-month tours, three months longer than the standard one-year tour.The lovely bit that applies to me:
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, who announced the change at a news conference at the Pentagon, said that the only other way to maintain force levels would have been to allow many soldiers less than a year at home between combat tours.
Army National Guard or Army Reserves are supposed to be mobilized for no more than a year at a time, including nine months in Iraq or Afghanistan, under a policy announced by Gates in January.Extending tours, shortening tours. But only for the Army. We already have some of the longest tours -- how is this going to change things?
Driver's convoy was hit by a roadside bomb during this mission. Everyone is fine, the equipment did the job it was supposed to do. Just worried. I know the trucks will keep them all safe, I know that they know what they're doing, and I know that he usually returns quickly and always in one piece. But there are people out there that are trying to kill Coalition troops. They do try. Some are successful. Sometimes, I hate his job. This is one of those times.
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On behalf of Grantham University, I want to extend my thanks to you and your unit for serving and protecting our country. It must have been disappointing to find out that your tour is being extended. To honor the sacrifice and service of National Guard members, Grantham University, in partnership with GX Magazine, is offering one full, four-year scholarship to an Army National Guard member in each of the 50 states and four U.S. territories. The scholarship will cover tuition cost, required textbooks and software. Applications for scholarships must be received by May 31, 2007 and the winners will be announced in August 2007. For more information, please visit www.grantham.edu/educatetheguard. Additionally, Grantham University offers military scholarships for active duty, reserve, guard, veterans and military family members as well as scholarships for law enforcement personnel.
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