Anbar may see troop cuts by spring

[unhappycamper]

Anbar may see troop cuts by spring
By Jim Michaels - USA Today
Posted : Wednesday Nov 7, 2007 12:15:48 EST

The U.S. command in Anbar province has plans that could cut one-third of the coalition’s combat battalions by next spring, reflecting improved security in what was among the deadliest regions in Iraq.

“We’ll see forces start to rotate out pretty soon,” said Marine Brig. Gen. John Allen, deputy commander of Multi-National Force-West. “We’ll be significantly smaller this time next year.”

The plan is based on successes against al-Qaida and improved capabilities of Iraqi security forces in the region, Allen said, rather than any pressure to reduce U.S. forces.

Allen said the current plan could lead to a reduction of four or five battalions. There are a total of 13 battalions, including Army and Marine units, in the province. Battalions are generally about 1,000 troops.

Some of the Army battalions could be sent elsewhere in Iraq. Marine battalions would have completed their tours and would return home without being replaced, if the plan goes into effect.

“They’re not a peace dividend,” Allen said. “There’s a lot of work still to be done in that province.”


Rest of article at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2007/11/gns_anbar_071107/