650 paratroopers activated and deployed this morning in response to the increased threat levels against U.S. personnel and facilities

UPDATE: Statement from Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper

”At the direction of the Commander in Chief, I have authorized the deployment of an infantry battalion from the Immediate Response Force (IRF) of the 82nd Airborne Division to the U.S. Central Command area of operations in response to recent events in Iraq.

Approximately 750 soldiers will deploy to the region immediately, and additional forces from the IRF are prepared to deploy over the next several days.

This deployment is an appropriate and precautionary action taken in response to increased threat levels against U.S. personnel and facilities, such as we witnessed in Baghdad today. The United States will protect our people and interests anywhere they are found around the world.”

Early this morning more than 650 All American Paratroopers and equipment began deployment to the U.S. Central Command area of operations. 

Paratroopers from 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division were activated and deployed in response to the increased threat levels against U.S. personnel and facilities.

The remainder of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, the BCT currently assigned the IRF mission, and elements of the 82nd Airborne Division remain postured and ready to deploy in support of the National Command Authority.

This is why we exist. Your Paratroopers have trained and prepared for events like these since their arrival to the All American Division, and they are trained and ready to answer the nation’s call.