In light of the May, 2, 2012 "Enduring Strategic Partnership Agreement" between the United States of America and Afghanistan, below are excerpts from a May, 2012 report by The Brookings Institution:
"It also commits the United States to a continuing military presence in Afghanistan at least through 2024"
The often mentioned complete pull-out of troops in 2014 refers to active combat personnel. But an undetermined number of soldiers will remain in non-combat missions, such as training Afghan soldiers, providing anti-terrorism activities, and other duties specified by the two countries.
Another article on May 2, 2012 by The Council on Foreign Relations states:
"... (President Obama) stated that U.S. military forces would continue to leave Afghanistan
but that American soldiers would remain in the country until at least
2024."
* As of the summer of 2012, there are an estimated 88,000 American soldiers in Afghanistan.
* By the fall of 2012, the USA troop level is expected to be about 65,000 soldiers.
* 2013-2014 American troop levels have not been determined.
* By the end of 2014, all active combat soldiers are expected to be withdrawn from Afghanistan.
* Between 2015-2024, the U.S. will have a non-combat military presence in Afghanistan, but the size and scope of the operation has yet to be determined.
For those American soldiers serving overseas, we welcome your support in helping us continue to send care packages.
