WASHINGTON (CNN) – Troops from both Fort Campbell and Fort Knox could be deployed to the border as part of “Operation Faithful Patriot.” The military moves come in response to a migrant caravan attempting to cross over into the United States, via Mexico.
An official told CNN that while no final decision has been made, the commander of Northern Command, which will oversee the operation, has the authority to preposition forces. The troops will be deployed from Fort Bragg in North Carolina, Fort Campbell and Fort Knox in Kentucky and Fort Hood in Texas.
The official added that verbal orders went out this past weekend to some units and additional written orders are starting Monday. The official added that some troops were already moving and that their number could increase or decrease as needs are assessed.
The migrants are seeking asylum, which can be applied for only once someone seeking protection from persecution or fleeing violence in their home country is inside another country or is at the border.
President Trump tweeted Monday to the immigrants “Please go back. You will not be admitted into the United States unless you go through the legal process. This is an invasion of our Country and our Military is waiting for you!”
