Staff writer
lhunsberger@coastalcourier.com
JACKSONVILLE — As the 3rd Infantry Division forges ahead with its deployment schedule, most soldiers will be headed to Iraq; however, a few troops attached to Fort Stewart are preparing for duty in Afghanistan. While details surrounding President Barack Obama’s decision on the war’s progression in the country are still ambiguous, Obama did speak Monday in Jacksonville about his plan.
Just hours after 14 American fatalities occurred in Afghanistan, the president addressed service members and civilians at Jacksonville Naval Air Station about his strategy for Afghanistan, including the decision to send more troops into the area.
“While I will never hesitate to use force to protect the American people or our vital interests, I also promise you this, and this is very important as we consider our next steps in Afghanistan, I will never rush the solemn decision of sending you into harm’s way,” Obama said. “I won’t risk your lives unless it is absolutely necessary. And if it is necessary, we will back you up to the hilt.”
Obama said his main concern there is to prevent the country from becoming a safe-haven for al-Qaida and other extremists.
The top commander in the area, Gen. Stanley
McCrystal, has said he needs more troops in order to be successful, but Obama said he will not rush any decisions concerning the war or those he sends into it.
He said that no matter what the final decision is, one thing soldiers will not have to worry about is their families, as one thing remains the same:
“As you meet your missions around the world, we will take care of your families here at home,” the president said.
Officials at Fort Stewart said there are no plans
to send troops to Afghanistan, other than those who are already scheduled to go.
“Our Combat Aviation Brigade, about 3,000 soldiers, is deploying to Afghanistan,” said Fort Stewart Spokesman Kevin Larson. He also said there are about 150 military police currently in Afghanistan.
Obama also took the chance to let service members know how much he appreciates all they do for the country.
“So, I say to you today, and all those who serve, of all the privileges I have as president, I have no greater honor than serving as your commander-in-chief. You inspire me,” he said.
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