Pentagon Dedicated to Bergdahl's Return, Spokesman Says

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 4, 2012 - The safe return of the only U.S. service member known to be in Taliban captivity remains a top Defense Department priority, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today. Army Sgt. Bowe R. Bergdahl is someone Pentagon leaders "remember every day," Little told reporters at a news conference.

"We are taking steps on a regular basis to try to determine precisely where he is, and to secure his freedom," he added.

Reconciliation between the Taliban and the Afghan government remains an Afghan-led process, Little said in response to a reporter's question, and is not linked to the department's efforts to secure Bergdahl's release.
"We are strongly dedicated to getting Bowe Bergdahl home to his family in Idaho," he said. "We want to see that happen as quickly as possible. ... We never forget those who remain in the custody of those who should not be holding our soldiers."

Bergdahl, 26, from Hailey, Idaho, has been missing since June 30, 2009, when his unit in Afghanistan noted his absence from roll call. He is assigned to 1st Battalion, 501st Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, based at Fort Richardson, Alaska.