http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces U.S. Military on Yahoo! News Photos Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:17:18 GMT Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:17:18 GMT http://rss.news.yahoo.com/ 142 18 http://l.yimg.com/a/i/us/nws/th/main_142b.gif http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090704/480/26c56f9dbff24bb5919dd0b4d873f922 (AP) - Heather Gengler, center, wife of U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler along with daughters Carson Gengler, 12, left, and Hayden Gengler, 8, watch and listen to Maj. Gengler during a video conference from Iraq on Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a new lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:17:18 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090704/capt.26c56f9dbff24bb5919dd0b4d873f922.iraq_soldier_new_lawyer_miag104.jpg?x=130&y=84&q=85&sig=OV.rgEhiJfKthdu80z5oYg-- Heather Gengler, center, wife of U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles ... (AP) - Heather Gengler, center, wife of U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler along with daughters Carson Gengler, 12, left, and Hayden Gengler, 8, watch and listen to Maj. Gengler during a video conference from Iraq on Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a new lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090704/480/f3769e42f4624aea93834c3d2516d46d (AP) - Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, left, swears in U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler as a new lawyer Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich., during a ceremony via video conference. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a new lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:17:06 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090704/capt.f3769e42f4624aea93834c3d2516d46d.iraq_soldier_new_lawyer_miag103.jpg?x=130&y=111&q=85&sig=4pGPxFEbAiiV8VP1I9YO8g-- Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, left, swears ... (AP) - Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, left, swears in U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler as a new lawyer Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich., during a ceremony via video conference. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a new lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090704/480/8ed9ad5b31c84f5086a513725b77053a (AP) - Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, left, swears in U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler as a new lawyer Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich., during a ceremony via video conference. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a new lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:16:57 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090704/capt.8ed9ad5b31c84f5086a513725b77053a.iraq_soldier_new_lawyer_miag102.jpg?x=130&y=73&q=85&sig=GqEBHbH30vtjaP4nbrVM8Q-- Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, left, swears ... (AP) - Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, left, swears in U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler as a new lawyer Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich., during a ceremony via video conference. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a new lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090704/480/1adddf639d074443b5f3492d76f40f48 (AP) - Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, center, recites the Pledge of Allegiance with U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler's daughters, Carson Gengler, 12, right, and Hayden Gengler, 8, Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich., during a ceremony to swear Gengler as a new lawyer via video conference. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:16:54 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090704/capt.1adddf639d074443b5f3492d76f40f48.iraq_soldier_new_lawyer_miag101.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=fyuChbXUboO4rQeeCTCqrA-- Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, center, ... (AP) - Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly, center, recites the Pledge of Allegiance with U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Miles Gengler's daughters, Carson Gengler, 12, right, and Hayden Gengler, 8, Thursday, July 2, 2009, in Lansing, Mich., during a ceremony to swear Gengler as a new lawyer via video conference. Gengler, 35, was sworn in as a lawyer while standing more than 6,000 miles away in Baghdad's Green Zone. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly administered the 240-word oath during a unique long-distance ceremony at the state National Guard headquarters in Lansing. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_pl_afp/9b084b97157576b5a0d5bfaacf864e0f (AFP/Graphic) - Total deaths of US soldiers in Iraq. A fiery protest marked the start on Friday of US Vice President Joe Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP/Graphic/Sophie Ramis)

]]> (AFP/Graphic) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 21:50:23 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246614383318-7-0.jpg?x=97&y=130&q=85&sig=BYI0MAdsPz5mH0iR06lvMw-- Total deaths of US soldiers in Iraq. A fiery protest marked ... (AFP/Graphic) - Total deaths of US soldiers in Iraq. A fiery protest marked the start on Friday of US Vice President Joe Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP/Graphic/Sophie Ramis)

]]> (AFP/Graphic) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_pl_afp/73b85a4286b004c5ee0619296a563fc0 (AFP/POOL) - US Vice President Joseph Biden (L), US Ambassador Christopher Hill and General Ray Odierno are seen at a US military base near Baghdad. Biden on Friday warned Iraqi officials that Washington would politically disengage if sectarian and ethnic strife resumed as he warned of a "hard road ahead".(AFP/POOL/Khalid Mohammed)

]]> (AFP/POOL) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 21:50:23 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246627281402-7-0.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=7Fee_mLrd3Kw90R7isqpLg-- US Vice President Joseph Biden (L), US Ambassador Christopher ... (AFP/POOL) - US Vice President Joseph Biden (L), US Ambassador Christopher Hill and General Ray Odierno are seen at a US military base near Baghdad. Biden on Friday warned Iraqi officials that Washington would politically disengage if sectarian and ethnic strife resumed as he warned of a "hard road ahead".(AFP/POOL/Khalid Mohammed)

]]> (AFP/POOL) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_afp/e8996f4eaeff1c90e19f7a340c5acc2c (AFP/POOL) - US Vice President Joseph Biden (C), Gen. Ray Odierno (2nd L) and US Ambassador Christopher Hill (2nd R) meet with representatives from Iraqi NGOs at a US military base near Baghdad. Biden on Friday warned Iraqi officials that Washington would politically disengage if sectarian and ethnic strife resumed as he warned of a "hard road ahead".(AFP/POOL/Khalid Mohammed)

]]> (AFP/POOL) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 21:00:15 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246642031400-6-0.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=ZuqziGeQFR5YGwLkN3jdFQ-- US Vice President Joseph Biden (C), Gen. Ray Odierno (2nd L) ... (AFP/POOL) - US Vice President Joseph Biden (C), Gen. Ray Odierno (2nd L) and US Ambassador Christopher Hill (2nd R) meet with representatives from Iraqi NGOs at a US military base near Baghdad. Biden on Friday warned Iraqi officials that Washington would politically disengage if sectarian and ethnic strife resumed as he warned of a "hard road ahead".(AFP/POOL/Khalid Mohammed)

]]> (AFP/POOL) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_ts/r4178665308.jpg (Reuters) - U.S. soldiers of Mortar Platoon from the 4-25FA Battalion, 3 Brigade, 10th Mountain Division fire shells for targeting as they prepare for possible attacks ahead of the United States Independence Day at the Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:18:02 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r4178665308.jpg?x=95&y=130&q=85&sig=VDeSuo9NF8G1ofkf7aaEEQ-- U.S. soldiers of Mortar Platoon from the 4-25FA Battalion, 3 ... (Reuters) - U.S. soldiers of Mortar Platoon from the 4-25FA Battalion, 3 Brigade, 10th Mountain Division fire shells for targeting as they prepare for possible attacks ahead of the United States Independence Day at the Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r1534408818.jpg (Reuters) - U.S. soldiers of Mortar Platoon from the 4-25FA Battalion, 3 Brigade, 10th Mountain Division fire shells for targeting as they prepare for possible attacks ahead of the United States Independence Day at the Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov (AFGHANISTAN POLITICS CONFLICT MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:14:02 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r1534408818.jpg?x=130&y=95&q=85&sig=I90_Tq8_Do.IMYNW6B2ZMA-- U.S. soldiers of Mortar Platoon from the 4-25FA Battalion, 3 ... (Reuters) - U.S. soldiers of Mortar Platoon from the 4-25FA Battalion, 3 Brigade, 10th Mountain Division fire shells for targeting as they prepare for possible attacks ahead of the United States Independence Day at the Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov (AFGHANISTAN POLITICS CONFLICT MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_pc_afp/4328ba16822bafe56b487a74ff244ce6 (AFP iactiv) - Interactive graphic on Afghanistan where 4,000 US Marines poured into the Taliban heartlands in Helmand Province.(AFP iactiv)

]]> (AFP iactiv) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:29:12 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246619447072-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=78&q=85&sig=faBjLshxRYYqJE_MyNdB5w-- Interactive graphic on Afghanistan where 4,000 US Marines poured ... (AFP iactiv) - Interactive graphic on Afghanistan where 4,000 US Marines poured into the Taliban heartlands in Helmand Province.(AFP iactiv)

]]> (AFP iactiv) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_pc_afp/a990b69d7bf6f0dc05ba8b66031837f2 (AFP/File) - US Marines from the 2nd Battalion make preparations ahead of Operation Khanjar at Camp Dwyer in Helmand Province, Afghanistan on July 2, 2009. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds in a major assault in Afghanistan, according to their commanding officer.(AFP/File/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP/File) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:29:12 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246554631807-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=85&q=85&sig=3cHDP8vOrS_GTbnA0NaMFw-- US Marines from the 2nd Battalion make preparations ahead of ... (AFP/File) - US Marines from the 2nd Battalion make preparations ahead of Operation Khanjar at Camp Dwyer in Helmand Province, Afghanistan on July 2, 2009. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds in a major assault in Afghanistan, according to their commanding officer.(AFP/File/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP/File) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_pc_afp/ae2651eb368d482458185bb32357ed5a (AFP Graphic) - Map showing Khanishin, Garmsir and Nawa in Afghanistan's Helmand province where US Marines are pressing ahead with an air and ground assault on Taliban strongholds.(AFP Graphic)

]]> (AFP Graphic) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:29:12 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246606229862-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=Tao2PzybB6zWL8eQYcoNyw-- Map showing Khanishin, Garmsir and Nawa in Afghanistan's ... (AFP Graphic) - Map showing Khanishin, Garmsir and Nawa in Afghanistan's Helmand province where US Marines are pressing ahead with an air and ground assault on Taliban strongholds.(AFP Graphic)

]]> (AFP Graphic) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_pc_afp/59748f1b53342d72d4e6838fe50a790e (AFP/File) - US Marines from 2nd Battalion wait to board helicopters from Camp Dwyer as they leave to take part in Operation Khanjar on July 2, 2009. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds in a major assault in Afghanistan, according to their commanding officer.(AFP/File/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP/File) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:29:12 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246554690994-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=84&q=85&sig=B1yZxrH68zHgtTgLeaWVhg-- US Marines from 2nd Battalion wait to board helicopters from ... (AFP/File) - US Marines from 2nd Battalion wait to board helicopters from Camp Dwyer as they leave to take part in Operation Khanjar on July 2, 2009. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds in a major assault in Afghanistan, according to their commanding officer.(AFP/File/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP/File) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_pc_afp/7cb695d474e642d0ebbba85d25b3ff97 (AFP/File) - US Marines wait for helicopter transport as part of Operation Khanjar in Afghanistan's Helmand Province on July 2, 2009. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds in a major assault in Afghanistan, according to their commanding officer.(AFP/File/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP/File) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:29:12 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246554787806-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=85&q=85&sig=06PO468aJBxecmDkNAqBBg-- US Marines wait for helicopter transport as part of Operation ... (AFP/File) - US Marines wait for helicopter transport as part of Operation Khanjar in Afghanistan's Helmand Province on July 2, 2009. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds in a major assault in Afghanistan, according to their commanding officer.(AFP/File/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP/File) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_ts/r3111236933.jpg (Reuters) - U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden leaves the U.S. military headquarters (a former Saddam-era palace) followed by U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (C) and General Ray Odierno (R) in Baghdad July 3, 2009. Biden made a previously unannounced visit to Baghdad on Thursday to meet Iraqi leaders and U.S. military commanders just days after American troops withdrew from Iraqi towns and city centers. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:24:22 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r3111236933.jpg?x=130&y=104&q=85&sig=AyCH2OEYe8TMQF79b8h5rA-- U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden leaves the U.S. military headquarters ... (Reuters) - U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden leaves the U.S. military headquarters (a former Saddam-era palace) followed by U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (C) and General Ray Odierno (R) in Baghdad July 3, 2009. Biden made a previously unannounced visit to Baghdad on Thursday to meet Iraqi leaders and U.S. military commanders just days after American troops withdrew from Iraqi towns and city centers. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r155023795.jpg (Reuters) - U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden leaves the U.S. military headquarters (a former Saddam-era palace) followed by U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (C) and General Ray Odierno (R) in Baghdad July 3, 2009. Biden made a previously unannounced visit to Baghdad on Thursday to meet Iraqi leaders and U.S. military commanders just days after American troops withdrew from Iraqi towns and city centers. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:52:04 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r155023795.jpg?x=123&y=130&q=85&sig=HfXRrtnxrawNC.ImF3zCTg-- U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden leaves the U.S. military headquarters ... (Reuters) - U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden leaves the U.S. military headquarters (a former Saddam-era palace) followed by U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (C) and General Ray Odierno (R) in Baghdad July 3, 2009. Biden made a previously unannounced visit to Baghdad on Thursday to meet Iraqi leaders and U.S. military commanders just days after American troops withdrew from Iraqi towns and city centers. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r932165290.jpg (Reuters) - United States Vice-President Joe Biden (C) is pictured with General Ray Odierno and U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (R) during a meeting at Odierno's headquarters at a military base outside Baghdad, July 3, 2009. Biden made a previously unannounced visit to Baghdad on Thursday to meet Iraqi leaders and U.S. military commanders just days after American troops withdrew from Iraqi towns and city centers. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:39:41 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r932165290.jpg?x=130&y=84&q=85&sig=0WZhGagE_nYl6QcGZY8dsQ-- United States Vice-President Joe Biden (C) is pictured with ... (Reuters) - United States Vice-President Joe Biden (C) is pictured with General Ray Odierno and U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (R) during a meeting at Odierno's headquarters at a military base outside Baghdad, July 3, 2009. Biden made a previously unannounced visit to Baghdad on Thursday to meet Iraqi leaders and U.S. military commanders just days after American troops withdrew from Iraqi towns and city centers. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r3700101054.jpg (Reuters) - United States Vice-President Joe Biden (L) meets with U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill at military base outside Baghdad, July 3, 2009. Biden's three-day visit comes after President Barack Obama appointed him to help coordinate Iraq policy as U.S. officials lay the groundwork for a full withdrawal of U.S. forces by 2012. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:37:27 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r3700101054.jpg?x=130&y=106&q=85&sig=BPEDWryHs_MSjeAYXSwZMg-- United States Vice-President Joe Biden (L) meets with U.S. Ambassador ... (Reuters) - United States Vice-President Joe Biden (L) meets with U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill at military base outside Baghdad, July 3, 2009. Biden's three-day visit comes after President Barack Obama appointed him to help coordinate Iraq policy as U.S. officials lay the groundwork for a full withdrawal of U.S. forces by 2012. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r1403592907.jpg (Reuters) - U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden (C) meets General Ray Odierno and U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (R) at Odierno's headquarters at the military base outside Baghdad July 3, 2009. Biden's three-day visit comes after President Barack Obama appointed him to help coordinate Iraq policy as U.S. officials lay the groundwork for a full withdrawal of U.S. forces by 2012. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:35:14 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r1403592907.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=XJwJJNui.I.aCbdKYckBfQ-- U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden (C) meets General Ray Odierno ... (Reuters) - U.S. Vice-President Joe Biden (C) meets General Ray Odierno and U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill (R) at Odierno's headquarters at the military base outside Baghdad July 3, 2009. Biden's three-day visit comes after President Barack Obama appointed him to help coordinate Iraq policy as U.S. officials lay the groundwork for a full withdrawal of U.S. forces by 2012. REUTERS/Andrew Quinn (IRAQ POLITICS MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/b1771f7b0f3e4699860b4867199ad078 (AP) - A U.S. Marine from the 2nd MEB, 1st Battalion 5th Marines watch as Afghani residents of a village in the Nawa district in Afghanistan's Helmand province lead their cows across the main road Friday July 3, 2009. (AP Photo/David Guttenfelder)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:34:46 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.b1771f7b0f3e4699860b4867199ad078.afghanistan_us_troops_xdg110.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=ahTpln564PLNlmkBXrbfSA-- A U.S. Marine from the 2nd MEB, 1st Battalion 5th Marines watch ... (AP) - A U.S. Marine from the 2nd MEB, 1st Battalion 5th Marines watch as Afghani residents of a village in the Nawa district in Afghanistan's Helmand province lead their cows across the main road Friday July 3, 2009. (AP Photo/David Guttenfelder)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_pl_afp/305fb994e10104ef1d0cb0b47353ba2e (AFP) - An Afghan child observes a US Marine of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade patrol Garmsir district in Afghanistan's Helmand province. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:24:16 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246634635931-1-0.jpg?x=130&y=85&q=85&sig=U39vg0q04fB7n7wg.JDOiw-- An Afghan child observes a US Marine of 2nd Marine Expeditionary ... (AFP) - An Afghan child observes a US Marine of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade patrol Garmsir district in Afghanistan's Helmand province. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_pl_afp/6ab9db06b1dc1ee570737789e8cde096 (AFP) - A US Marine of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade patrols Garmsir district in Afghanistan's Helmand province. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:24:16 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246634551915-1-0.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=Kj7SyjukNT8IygRLa3w.UA-- A US Marine of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade patrols Garmsir ... (AFP) - A US Marine of 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade patrols Garmsir district in Afghanistan's Helmand province. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_pl_afp/d12c4f16bb81a479e8d8a61c2544c5d7 (AFP/File) - US President Barack Obama (R) meets with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in London in April 2009. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/File/Saul Loeb)

]]> (AFP/File) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:24:16 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246634482633-1-0.jpg?x=112&y=130&q=85&sig=q.QpPaTQ.LCSJMmkrO49Cg-- US President Barack Obama (R) meets with Russian President Dmitry ... (AFP/File) - US President Barack Obama (R) meets with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in London in April 2009. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/File/Saul Loeb)

]]> (AFP/File) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r4234443414.jpg (Reuters) - A U.S. soldier of 3rd Platoon from the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division shows a victory sign while driving from Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in the mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov (AFGHANISTAN POLITICS CONFLICT MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:15:46 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r4234443414.jpg?x=130&y=89&q=85&sig=VfVxj7Bg1AGJ8.67FW8BVA-- A U.S. soldier of 3rd Platoon from the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain ... (Reuters) - A U.S. soldier of 3rd Platoon from the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division shows a victory sign while driving from Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in the mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov (AFGHANISTAN POLITICS CONFLICT MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r4069569048.jpg (Reuters) - A U.S. soldier of 3rd Platoon from the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division tries to catch a cigarette thrown by a colleague at Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in the mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov (AFGHANISTAN POLITICS CONFLICT MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:11:16 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r4069569048.jpg?x=130&y=83&q=85&sig=a.0ERCxMEri.5Vi5e8_nZA-- A U.S. soldier of 3rd Platoon from the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain ... (Reuters) - A U.S. soldier of 3rd Platoon from the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division tries to catch a cigarette thrown by a colleague at Combat Operation Outpost (COP) Conlon in the mountains of Wardak Province, Afghanistan, July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov (AFGHANISTAN POLITICS CONFLICT MILITARY)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/e082a1762d714ba199c38f43370a8d54 (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden walks in font of photographs of U.S. government members inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:36:52 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.e082a1762d714ba199c38f43370a8d54.germany_us_army_biden_bam110.jpg?x=98&y=130&q=85&sig=IDZ7JaCEKhEWEBWYXSSt.g-- Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden walks in font ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden walks in font of photographs of U.S. government members inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/b7cbcb2899734c0f98e062a56a27bd9c (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Sergeant Eric Gholston, right, and his wife Army Gholston, left, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:36:40 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.b7cbcb2899734c0f98e062a56a27bd9c.germany_us_army_biden_bam108.jpg?x=130&y=91&q=85&sig=Rcwjgvabls_xzJJNeB2WbA-- Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Sergeant Eric Gholston, right, and his wife Army Gholston, left, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/ee24a28352dd4a86b536a89045f53251 (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, from Rock Island, Illinois, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:35:58 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.ee24a28352dd4a86b536a89045f53251.germany_us_army_biden_bam109.jpg?x=130&y=89&q=85&sig=lH6LWUQ86V4UMfHUF5OQdw-- Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, from Rock Island, Illinois, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/30842664df7e4006b4ab02e6b49f534d (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, center, receives her meal from Steve Baker, right, besides Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, from Rock Island, Illinois, and Major General Byron Bagby, Chief of Staff U.S. Army Europe, 2nd from left, from Fulton, Missouri, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:35:27 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.30842664df7e4006b4ab02e6b49f534d.germany_us_army_biden_bam107.jpg?x=130&y=65&q=85&sig=0Q2nkSq2OPeBqhaIp0q_uw-- Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, center, receives ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, center, receives her meal from Steve Baker, right, besides Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, from Rock Island, Illinois, and Major General Byron Bagby, Chief of Staff U.S. Army Europe, 2nd from left, from Fulton, Missouri, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt on July 3rd and July 4th to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_sa_afp/a039fd0b60b1529946ae62b48c5e8320 (AFP) - A helicopter carrying US Marines takes off at Camp Dwyer in Helmand province on July 2. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds during a major assault in Afghanistan, their commanding officer said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:35:10 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246602083875-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=82&q=85&sig=fTotE4BMBe_i13oXPn6cXw-- A helicopter carrying US Marines takes off at Camp Dwyer in ... (AFP) - A helicopter carrying US Marines takes off at Camp Dwyer in Helmand province on July 2. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds during a major assault in Afghanistan, their commanding officer said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_sa_afp/f35fcd9b51092f5001ec90bd8bce4da2 (AFP) - US Marines wait to board choppers in Helmand province on July 2. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds during a major assault in Afghanistan, their commanding officer said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:35:10 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246601914593-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=sYhd5bfqmxdsL2OhMmYsWQ-- US Marines wait to board choppers in Helmand province on July ... (AFP) - US Marines wait to board choppers in Helmand province on July 2. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds during a major assault in Afghanistan, their commanding officer said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_sa_afp/88f92957ecec989a414c963b23877d3f (AFP) - US Marines wait to board helicopters at Camp Dwyer in Helmand province on July 2. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds during a major assault in Afghanistan, their commanding officer said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:35:10 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246601644125-2-0.jpg?x=130&y=85&q=85&sig=jonj6V84lCJKJbUJ4.4Kuw-- US Marines wait to board helicopters at Camp Dwyer in Helmand ... (AFP) - US Marines wait to board helicopters at Camp Dwyer in Helmand province on July 2. US Marines are in a "hell of a fight" as they storm into Taliban strongholds during a major assault in Afghanistan, their commanding officer said Friday.(AFP/Manpreet Romana)

]]> (AFP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/f0168de24b4248f39d7727e9c1044376 (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, from Rock Island, Illinois, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day holiday with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:31:18 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.f0168de24b4248f39d7727e9c1044376.germany_us_army_biden_bam103.jpg?x=88&y=130&q=85&sig=RMq4buN0NzvT.KkeGem9fQ-- Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, from Rock Island, Illinois, inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day holiday with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r2229586674.jpg (Reuters) - A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:27:52 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r2229586674.jpg?x=130&y=90&q=85&sig=pweixrNmLGdBpLyMDsp1gw-- A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province ... (Reuters) - A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/ac7e83539d5d4b4593681d1311523fa6 (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, right, talks with family members of U.S soldiers at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:25:12 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.ac7e83539d5d4b4593681d1311523fa6.germany_us_army_biden_bam106.jpg?x=130&y=93&q=85&sig=5XgWnCcdK.ajDfwCvoMeAw-- Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, right, talks with ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, right, talks with family members of U.S soldiers at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/6c1d5ff923354f9e8ae9b7ed56c7c6ff (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with soldiers and their families inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:24:40 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.6c1d5ff923354f9e8ae9b7ed56c7c6ff.germany_us_army_biden_bam105.jpg?x=98&y=130&q=85&sig=xVZk4r6szi1rwz737WINiw-- Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with soldiers and their families inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r3446796459.jpg (Reuters) - A U.S marine is reflected in a mirror which is displayed for sale, as he patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:24:21 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r3446796459.jpg?x=130&y=91&q=85&sig=kVQ9cNX4CYDVM3kJTZePnw-- A U.S marine is reflected in a mirror which is displayed for ... (Reuters) - A U.S marine is reflected in a mirror which is displayed for sale, as he patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r388700096.jpg (Reuters) - A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:24:16 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r388700096.jpg?x=130&y=84&q=85&sig=2V__kCO9TPNDg2rLYY_h7A-- A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province ... (Reuters) - A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/d135d41d86934233ad5f09829055ae71 (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, Rock Island, Illinois; inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:24:12 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.d135d41d86934233ad5f09829055ae71.germany_us_army_biden_bam102.jpg?x=130&y=95&q=85&sig=cuJq9AT_F.5_yjhUFUYFpg-- Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with Garrison Command Sergeant Major Bruce Lee, left, Rock Island, Illinois; inside a dining facility at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army Garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r2315933904.jpg (Reuters) - An Afghan army vehicle passes by as a U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:23:07 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r2315933904.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=1i4C3wPiCxJweQd.2nfx3g-- An Afghan army vehicle passes by as a U.S marine patrols in ... (Reuters) - An Afghan army vehicle passes by as a U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_me_afp/1f48c1f2339856ea0420a8b76bd83371 (AFP/File) - US soldiers and Iraqi police carry out their last patrol along the streets of Khan Bani Saad on June 28. A fiery protest marked the start of US Vice President Joe Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP/File/Ahmad al-Rubaye)

]]> (AFP/File) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:22:30 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246614653586-3-0.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=iRiyAFz6zJBDvdwyabexMw-- US soldiers and Iraqi police carry out their last patrol along ... (AFP/File) - US soldiers and Iraqi police carry out their last patrol along the streets of Khan Bani Saad on June 28. A fiery protest marked the start of US Vice President Joe Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP/File/Ahmad al-Rubaye)

]]> (AFP/File) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_me_afp/f71bbe4ae3472f19866e745b7f78ced6 (AFP Graphics) - Total deaths of US soldiers in Iraq. A fiery protest marked the start of US Vice President Joe Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP Graphics/Sophie Ramis)

]]> (AFP Graphics) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:22:30 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246614383318-3-0.jpg?x=97&y=130&q=85&sig=gYQg4MEQ59AdbLIdaP3JOw-- Total deaths of US soldiers in Iraq. A fiery protest marked ... (AFP Graphics) - Total deaths of US soldiers in Iraq. A fiery protest marked the start of US Vice President Joe Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP Graphics/Sophie Ramis)

]]> (AFP Graphics) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_me_afp/d3ad0fabeee666cd7f57692c7ce15e1e (AFP) - U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden (left), U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill and Gen Ray Odierno are seen at a U.S. military base near Baghdad. A fiery protest marked the start of Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP/Khalid Mohammed)

]]> (AFP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:22:30 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246627281402-3-0.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=gH1lYLay83UTbsTlB29Mcw-- U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden (left), U.S. Ambassador Christopher ... (AFP) - U.S. Vice President Joseph Biden (left), U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill and Gen Ray Odierno are seen at a U.S. military base near Baghdad. A fiery protest marked the start of Biden's visit to Iraq, with supporters of the Shiite anti-American cleric Moqtada al-Sadr burning the Stars and Stripes.(AFP/Khalid Mohammed)

]]> (AFP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/f8f8fe8fb8f24e42950143cbfbbc0d24 (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with soldiers and their family members at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:20:49 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.f8f8fe8fb8f24e42950143cbfbbc0d24.germany_us_army_biden_bam101.jpg?x=130&y=92&q=85&sig=v0jKd8SRGtMZNHEeZ9Rbgg-- Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks ... (AP) - Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, center, talks with soldiers and their family members at Warner Barracks, a U.S. Army garrison in Bamberg, southern Germany, on Friday, July 3, 2009. Jill Biden visits U.S. Army Garrisons in Bamberg and Schweinfurt to celebrate the Independence Day with soldiers and their family members stationed in Germany. This is part of Biden's ongoing work to raise awareness and show appreciation for members of the military and their families. (AP Photo/Jens Meyer)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r266329166.jpg (Reuters) - An Afghan man watches as a U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:20:33 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r266329166.jpg?x=100&y=130&q=85&sig=8uIDgiC11pxYABm4o0U5Yw-- An Afghan man watches as a U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir ... (Reuters) - An Afghan man watches as a U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r779216744.jpg (Reuters) - A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Thousands of U.S. Marines stormed deep into Taliban territory in an Afghan valley on Thursday, marking the start of a major new effort by the Obama administration to regain the initiative in the war. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:06:31 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r779216744.jpg?x=130&y=82&q=85&sig=pBo_yn22Hl6ySJkycTBr8A-- A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province ... (Reuters) - A U.S marine patrols in the Garmsir district of Helmand province July 3, 2009. Thousands of U.S. Marines stormed deep into Taliban territory in an Afghan valley on Thursday, marking the start of a major new effort by the Obama administration to regain the initiative in the war. Only scattered clashes were reported on Friday as the Marines fanned out through towns and mud-brick villages in the Helmand River valley, a crescent of opium poppy and wheat fields criss-crossed by canals. REUTERS/Ahmad Masood (AFGHANISTAN MILITARY CONFLICT)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/481/d0181805b67546ee9644612b83974369 (AP) - U.S. Marines from the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 1st Battalion 5th Marines patrol in the Nawa district in Afghanistan's Helmand province Friday July 3, 2009. U.S. forces have encountered little resistance in the initial phase of a massive operation by some 4,000 Marines in Taliban-controlled areas of southern Afghanistan, but that's a common tactic by insurgents. (AP Photo/David Guttenfelder)

]]> (AP) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:50:53 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090703/capt.d0181805b67546ee9644612b83974369.aptopix_afghanistan_xdg101.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=T8AppiQAWzIdxAbFqsK9Vw-- U.S. Marines from the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 1st ... (AP) - U.S. Marines from the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, 1st Battalion 5th Marines patrol in the Nawa district in Afghanistan's Helmand province Friday July 3, 2009. U.S. forces have encountered little resistance in the initial phase of a massive operation by some 4,000 Marines in Taliban-controlled areas of southern Afghanistan, but that's a common tactic by insurgents. (AP Photo/David Guttenfelder)

]]> (AP) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/photos_wl_sa_afp/535d254c00a597a9c59e9eef080dc3e2 (AFP/File) - US President Barack Obama (right) with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in London in April 2009. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/File/Saul Loeb)

]]> (AFP/File) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:50:45 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/afp/20090703/capt.photo_1246620886343-1-0.jpg?x=112&y=130&q=85&sig=CJJ9hupf.ylit_sxEyY10A-- US President Barack Obama (right) with Russian President Dmitry ... (AFP/File) - US President Barack Obama (right) with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in London in April 2009. The Russian and US presidents plan next week to sign deals on replacing a Cold War-era missile treaty and the transit of US military supplies bound for Afghanistan, a Kremlin aide said Friday.(AFP/File/Saul Loeb)

]]> (AFP/File) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r3413114205.jpg (Reuters) - A U.S. Marine keeps watch during a patrol in Sorkhdoz, in southern Afghanistan's lower Helmand River valley, July 3, 2009. The Marines spent their first night in the valley after seizing towns and villages there in a massive helicopter and ground assault known as Operation Strike of the Sword. REUTERS/ Peter Graff (AFGHANISTAN CONFLICT POLITICS)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:36:17 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r3413114205.jpg?x=130&y=92&q=85&sig=XTwnD89YggjAvAjO3OiaTw-- A U.S. Marine keeps watch during a patrol in Sorkhdoz, in southern ... (Reuters) - A U.S. Marine keeps watch during a patrol in Sorkhdoz, in southern Afghanistan's lower Helmand River valley, July 3, 2009. The Marines spent their first night in the valley after seizing towns and villages there in a massive helicopter and ground assault known as Operation Strike of the Sword. REUTERS/ Peter Graff (AFGHANISTAN CONFLICT POLITICS)

]]> (Reuters) http://us.rd.yahoo.com/dailynews/rss/photos/events/iraq/010403armedforces/index/*http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/US-Military/ss/events/iraq/010403armedforces/im:/090703/ids_photos_wl/r4056867205.jpg (Reuters) - U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (C), General Ray Odierno (2nd L), commander of U.S. forces in Iraq, and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Christopher Hill (2nd R) meet with representatives from Iraqi NGOs at a U.S. military base near Baghdad July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Khalid Mohammed /Pool (IRAQ CONFLICT POLITICS)

]]> (Reuters) Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:33:58 GMT http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090703/i/r4056867205.jpg?x=130&y=86&q=85&sig=1fMA1dGJ_Ok8eXkBszfl7Q-- U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (C), General Ray Odierno (2nd ... (Reuters) - U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (C), General Ray Odierno (2nd L), commander of U.S. forces in Iraq, and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Christopher Hill (2nd R) meet with representatives from Iraqi NGOs at a U.S. military base near Baghdad July 3, 2009. REUTERS/Khalid Mohammed /Pool (IRAQ CONFLICT POLITICS)

]]> (Reuters)