ZABUL PROVINCE, Afghanistan - The 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, became the latest unit to begin combat operations in Afghanistan May 17.
The unit led by Lt. Col. Sean Bateman, assumed command for the Daman district in Afghanistan during a transfer of authority ceremony in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
"We have some of the best trained soldiers in the United States Army,” said 2-8 FA Command Sgt. Maj. Alexis Shelton. "They've trained hard for this mission and they're ready to do whatever is necessary to accomplish our goals."
The 2-8FA takes over command from Fires Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment.
The artillery regiment will support the Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, in an effort to combat insurgents and will work with coalition forces to provide a more stable governance throughout the district, said Capt. Angela Chipman, the unit public affairs representative for the 2-8 FA.
The battalion, which started its deployment in mid April, is scheduled for a yearlong deployment and brings with it months of training and preparation for the upcoming challenges it will face, Chipman said.
During the deployment the 2-8FA and the 1/25 SBCT will work under Regional Command South and will partner with the local Afghan national police and Afghan national army to conduct daily operations.
“Our soldiers are excited for the opportunity to work with such dedicated individuals and we are looking forward to our joint operations and the growing partnership between U.S. and Afghan forces,” Bateman said.