Fort Carson brigade converting to Stryker brigade, getting more troops
The Department of the Army announced that one of Fort Carson’s brigades will be converting to a different type soon, and it’ll get an influx of a few hundred more soldiers.
The 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will be converted to a Stryker Brigade Combat Team beginning in the spring of 2020. Fort Carson expects an increase of about 200 soldiers due to the change.
Strykers are eight-wheeled armored military vehicles — though not as heavily armored as tanks. The 2IBCT is currently deployed in Kosovo, but officials are already planning for future missions.
“We will embrace this change with the same professionalism, discipline, and commitment to excellence that the War Horse Brigade has exhibited throughout its distinguished history of outstanding service to our great Nation,” Col. David Zinn said in a statement. “Conversion to a Stryker Brigade brings increased mobility and lethality to the 4th Infantry Division and the U.S. Army.”
Rep. Doug Lamborn praised the move and called it an upgrade. Lamborn said it “helps solidify Fort Carson’s important role in our national defense.”
Sen. Cory Gardner echoed those thoughts, saying the announcement is “good for Fort Carson and Colorado, and most importantly the right decision for our military.”
“Senator Bennet and I made the case to the Army that Fort Carson’s incredible infrastructure, manpower, and support will guarantee an effective increase in the Army’s readiness and capabilities,” Gardner said in a statement.
It’s not yet clear exactly how the new Stryker brigade will be utilized, but the Mountain Post says it will be organized in the same way as its sister Stryker Brigade, the 1st SBCT, 4th Infantry Division, which is already stationed at Fort Carson.
