Elements of the 26th MEU deploy to Afghanistan | Print |
By CENTCOM Public Affairs

MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (Jan. 06, 2011) – At the request of the U.S. Forces Afghanistan (USFOR-A) Commander and in conjunction with the government of Afghanistan, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander, Gen. James Mattis is committing elements of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) to Afghanistan during their winter campaign. 

The purpose of the deployment is to exploit gains already achieved against insurgents and more rapidly complete construction of critical infrastructure.  This is a short-term deployment and is part of a comprehensive counter-insurgency strategy that will make a long-term contribution to Afghanistan’s progress towards self-governance, stability and security. 

The 26th MEU is currently a reserve force in the Central Command Theater deployed with the KEARSARGE Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) 26 MEU in the (Indian Ocean/Arabian Sea).  More than 1,000 personnel will be used to provide additional capabilities to increase security and progress in Afghanistan, and will operate in the Regional Command-Southwest (RC-SW) area.  Upon completion of their mission, 26th MEU personnel will return to the KEARSARGE ARG/26th MEU.

The CENTCOM Commander employs the theater reserve at his discretion when opportunities and requirements emerge.  The remaining elements of the 26th MEU will continue in their role as a reserve force with the KEARSARGE ARG/26 th MEU for support to regional security commitments and to provide a response capability.