It's Official

I know everyone can read the news and what has been written by the papers. Here is a message the acting SEC of Army and CSA has sent to the Soldiers and Families.

Acting SecArmy and CSA Sends:

To the Soldiers and families of the U.S. Army,

Yesterday, we announced that active-duty Army units now in the CentralCommand area of responsibility and those headed there will deploy for notmore than 15 months and will return to home stations for not less than 12 months. We made this difficult decision after careful thought, and we oweyou an explanation. We wanted to tell you in advance, but events caused usto move faster than planned.

Faced with the increased probability of sending units to combat with lessthan 12 months dwell time, the possibility of numerous late-breaking unitextensions, and understanding that we are in a long and difficult strugglethat will require a steady deployment of ground forces, we had to change ourcurrent policy of 12 months deployed. We intend to return to the 12 month policy as soon as possible.

Deployments of 15 months with a minimum of 12 months for reset, retrainingand recovery allow us to sustain a predictable flow of well-trained andwell-equipped formations to theater commanders. This also allows us toprovide a more predictable and dependable deployment schedule for Soldiersand families. Though there is nothing certain in war, this represents asolid commitment to 12 months of dwell time at home. This predictability isessential to the long term health of our Service.

The Nation, led by its ground forces, has been at war for over five yearsfighting for America's freedom, America's security and America's future.The Army exists to field forces for victory. We are in this war to win, andyou are making a difference every day.

We know this decision asks even more from you and your family, but it isessential to our success. We are both personally and profoundly gratefulfor your service, your many continued sacrifices and your deep commitment toaccomplishing our shared mission during this time of danger and uncertainty.You are the strength of our Nation.

ARMY STRONG!

George W. Casey, Jr.
PeteGeren
General, U.S. Army Acting
Secretary of the ArmyChief of Staff