Modified: Nov 14, 2008 02:22 AM
Marines soon on way to Afghanistan
The Associated Press


CAMP LEJEUNE - North Carolina-based Marines are preparing to deploy to Afghanistan as part of a task force that will replace another unit from Camp Lejeune.

The Marines said in a statement that members of the 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, will leave Thursday from Camp Lejeune. About 1,000 Marines and sailors are in the battalion.

The troops will be the ground combat force replacing the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit from Camp Lejeune and the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, from Twentynine Palms, Calif.

The battalion will be assigned to an air and ground task force created to reinforce troop levels in Afghanistan.

Ellie