Press Release 20100819-04
Aug. 19, 2010

*** Corrected release, supersedes 20100819-03 ***

BAGHDAD — The number of troops remaining in Iraq, commonly called "boots on the ground," is about 52,000.  

U.S. Forces - Iraq is on track for drawing down to 50,000 troops by Sept. 1, which marks the beginning of Operation New Dawn and a full transition to stability operations.

The previously reported number of 56,000 reflected the last calculation of boots on the ground conducted on Aug. 17.  These numbers have previously been reported to the media on a weekly basis.  

Due to the departure of the 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, as well as other smaller units and individuals in recent days, the number decreased significantly.  These numbers will be updated every 3 to 4 days as troops continue redeployments.

The remaining troops over 50,000 represent small elements of support units, as well as individual augmentees who are preparing to redeploy by Sept. 1.    

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For more information contact the USF-I Press Desk at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it