I think its more a preparedness issue than anything else DG. Airborne can also mean ready to deploy fast anywhere, not necessarily always jumping in. And thanks to President Clinton and her husband the military pantry is still going to take a while to restock. I doubt they're there as a threat to invade any other country, far too unstable a place.

Three reasons: 1)the 101st is a heliborn unit-which means a rabid reaction time to any incident; 2)it easier to move them to the region by air; and, 3)the 101 can kick the shit out of anyone in the region.

thats neatly summed it up. other countries have also sent their best and fastest.French Forign Leigion,British Paras. it makes sense to send the best.

101st is actually now known as the "101st Air Assault (or Air Mobile)." They are not an airborne unit any longer. They rapel or chopper in and do not jump as a unit although some members have certainly been to Fort Benning, GA for jump school. Sad but true. They are still known as the "Screamin' Eagles" though. What a proud tradition in the group.