In Iraq, Jubilation as U.S. Combat Troops Withdraw From CitiesWashington Post | Iraqis danced in the streets and set off fireworks Monday in impromptu celebrations of a pivotal moment in their nation's troubled history. Six years and three months after the invasion, the U.S. is withdrawing its remaining combat troops from Iraq's cities and turning over security to Iraqi forces. Some American troops have expressed concern about becoming more exposed after the withdrawal, because Iraqis will have unprecedented authority over U.S. military operations.
Facing Down a Firefight in IraqMSNBC | In 'Tip of the Spear' segment, Richard Engel places himself with twelve soldiers of Viper Company in a live firefight with members of the Taliban in the Korengal Valley. Plenty of gunfire and multiple camera angles by way of a 'helmet-cam' relay the violent incident.
Legally, Jacksons Face Long & Winding RoadWashington Post | Michael Jackson left behind three children, a pile of debts and a complicated financial empire that are likely to be the subjects of courtroom battles for years to come as the pop icon's family seeks to take control of his affairs. The story changes by the minute and the cast of characters gets longer and longer as the saga becomes the stuff of dreams for the tabloid news lover.
Newer Metro Rail Cars To Buffer Oldest in FleetWashington Post | Metro is planning to sandwich its oldest rail cars -- like the ones involved in last week's crash -- between newer series of cars. The oldest cars, which are more than 30 years old, have been criticized by federal safety officials for their tendency to fold into themselves, like a telescope, during a crash. Somehow, as a frequent rider, I'm not comfortable with this 'solution.'
'Scent lineups' Stink to CriticsUSA Today | Two federal lawsuits are casting a harsh spotlight on an investigative tool long beloved by American law enforcement: a bloodhound's nose. Lawsuits filed in Victoria, Texas, allege that a Fort Bend County Sheriff's deputy and his team of hounds failed controversial sniff tests known as "scent lineups." In each case, Pinkett's dogs called attention to the wrong person. Both former suspects have been cleared.