KABUL - A thousand US soldiers will be deployed to Afghanistan later this year to join the two brigades from Fort Carson that are already in the war-torn country, says the Department of Defense.
The Pentagon announced on Thursday the 4th Infantry Division headquarters would replace troops from the 101st Airborne Division at Bagram Airfield in central Parwan province.
In a statement, reported by the Military Times, the Fort Carson head said: "The 4th Infantry Division has a legacy of answering the nation's call and serving with distinction for more than 100 years."
Maj. Gen. Randy George, who is part of the division headquarters, added: "Throughout our proud history, one thing that has not changed is the heart and courage of our soldiers."
The headquarters would watch US troops as they work with Afghan allies against the Taliban in Afghanistan, where a cease-fire was observed last month for the first time in 18 years.
The headquarters, whose deployment has been speculated since September, is set for a nine-month tour overseas. The division headquarters will replace the 101st Airborne Division headquarters as part of a regular rotation of forces to support Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, officials said.