October 3, 2005: Kuwait has been the main logistics base for American operations in Iraq, containing, at its peak, 30 bases and 20,000 American troops. But the logistics operations have been streamlined over the last year, allowing a reduction to 12 bases and 12,000 American troops. Another major reduction will take place when the "pre-Iraq" training new troops receive in Kuwait is reduced from 45 days to less than 30. There are more places in Iraq where some of this "familiarization" training can be given, and many troops coming in are returning from previous tours in Iraq. They don't need as much of the familiarization training, especially since training back in the United States has become much more targeted for troops headed for Iraq or Afghanistan.
