WASHINGTON – The Army said it will extend the tour of duty for thousands of soldiers in Iraq.
The Pentagon's public affairs office has posted an article on its Web site that says about 6,500 soldiers will remain in Iraq at least two months longer than planned.
The Army cited a need for experienced troops for the Iraqi elections in late January.
The article spoke of the troops' frustration over having their tours extended. It said some soldiers had been told they would be leaving Iraq as early as November. Instead, they will stay through January.
3,500 of the soldiers are in the Second Brigade, First Cavalry Division, based at Fort Hood in Killeen. Another 3,000 are from the First Infantry Division headquarters.
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