Keep these guys in your thoughts....

[Myrddin]

I worked with these guys while I was in Mosul. These are some great guys and they are getting screwed over. They braved the streets of Mosul, and helped keep this medic safe. They don't deserve this, but will go to Baghdad and kick some ass. Good luck Brothers.....

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Pentagon extends Iraq duty for Baghdad-bound brigade
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The Army will keep about 3,500 soldiers from an Alaska-based infantry brigade in Iraq for up to four additional months as part of a plan to pacify strife-torn Baghdad, the Pentagon announced Thursday.

Troops from the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team had been scheduled to wrap up a year in Iraq in August. But the unit, which had been headquartered in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, will be moved into the Iraqi capital to crack down on a wave of sectarian killings that has been claiming more than 1,000 lives a month, the Defense Department said.

"The Department recognizes the continued contributions of the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team and their family members," a Pentagon statement said. "This extension reflects the continued commitment of the United States to the security of the Iraqi people."

The 172nd Brigade is based at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, outside Fairbanks. Its Stryker armored personnel carriers and its training make it the kind of unit Gen. George Casey, the commander of U.S. forces in Iraq, wants to help secure Baghdad, Pentagon officials said. (Posted 4:37 p.m.)

[bwohlgemuth]

Every single soldier is in my thoughts....that place is a hell hole but I hope they finish their mission soon and come home safely.

On/off topic, what were your impressions of Iraq and the people there?

[MynameisJenn]

yeesh I am glad you are able to come home on time

[Sankofa]

The same thing happened to my friend's brother-the powers that be randomly decided "oh, we're going to extend your stay." Talk about wack and a half.