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Pentagon Eyes Longer Tours for Guardsmen

Four years ago, President Bush called up National Guard and Army Reserve soldiers. They were not supposed to serve longer than 24 months. But even as Iraq and Afghanistan require the presence of more troops, that 24-month clock is stopping for many part-time soldiers, who range from combat troops to medics and engineers.

The Pentagon is considering resetting the clock, which would dig deep into units around the nation, affecting families and employers. Pentagon sources say now that the elections are over, the military may be forced to call up Guard units earlier than planned.

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