The Army’s stated goal is to give active-duty soldiers two years at home between overseas combat tours. But that has been largely impossible because the Army does not have enough brigades to meet the demands of simultaneous wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The latest buildup increased the demands, but until recently the Army had been able to give units at least a year break.
Military leaders say the 12 months are needed so the units can rest and then become adequately trained and equipped to go back.
Stretched army sends troops back to Iraq (AP)
Heading back soon:
4th Infantry Division (7 months at home) [GlobSec]
1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division (10.5 months at home) [GlobSec]