Deploying

The Defense Department announced today the deployment of about 3,100 additional forces to Afghanistan, part of the 30,000 troops authorized by President Obama on Nov. 30. The 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, from Ft. Hood, TX, will deploy about 2,600 soldiers to Afghanistan in the summer of 2010, according to DOD.

"The deployment of this brigade will increase the capabilities of the International Security Assistance Force," the Pentagon said in a statement. Defense Secretary Robert Gates also approved the deployment of about 500 support forces, which will deploy at various times through the summer of 2010, DOD said.