FORT STEWART, GA (WTOC) -
For the first time Wednesday, eventually in the War on Terror became identifiable when Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said the transition from combat to training and assistance should occur for U.S. Troops in Afghanistan by the end of 2013. That timeline could have impact locally because ending the combat mission would also eliminate the need for 3rd ID Combat Troops from Fort Stewart.
"I think it would be a good thing for families here. Husbands would be home with their families and see their kids. My brother in law is over there as a private contractor, I know he'd be ready to come home. He has been gone a long time," said Robert Reed.
That possibility would mean a whole new certainty for 3rd ID families. And a new best case scenario moving forward.
"That they stay at home and not go back over there. Like, what if they come home and need them back over there, that would be bad," said Chelsea Schisler.
"Actually, I think it is good. I don't think they have been over there long enough to do what they need to do. I think it is good that it is ending for them and their families, that would be good. That way we can keep them here and have them take care of us rather than take care of people over there," said Alton Guyton.
The new timeline will not affect the 3rd ID's deployment that has been confirmed for this summer. Local troops will still be going to Afghanistan.
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