April 28, 2009:
The U.S. is moving dozens of support units from Iraq to Afghanistan, where they will complete their one year combat tour. These units, including engineer, intelligence, transportation and communications troops, are being used to support the three additional combat brigades arriving in Afghanistan this year, and to enhance the capabilities of all units already in Afghanistan. For example, some of the engineer units specialize in keeping roads clear of roadside bombs. The intelligence units can handle more information, more quickly. In Iraq, this capability often proved decisive, with troops sometimes being sent on their way within minutes of a bit of info on the enemy being received.
Some support units are having their destination changed, from Iraq to Afghanistan, before they leave the United States.