Vt. Guard brigade prepares for Afghanistan - Air Force News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Air Force Times

Vt. Guard brigade prepares for Afghanistan

JERICHO, Vt. — Vermont National Guard soldiers are getting a taste of Afghanistan in the hills of Vermont, preparing for an expected yearlong deployment beginning next year.

In Jericho, the guard has set up a mock Afghan village, where guardsmen this week are learning to interact with local Afghan leaders and prepare for potential clashes with Taliban insurgents.

During a mock mission Friday, about two dozen soldiers fought a mock battle with a sniper after entering the village. Other soldiers played the role of Afghanis.

Up to 1,900 Vermont guard members belonging to the 86th Brigade are awaiting final orders from the Defense Department for the deployment.