National

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of State has launched the first Information Technology Intern Exchange program. The Iraq Information Technology (IT) Intern Program is the first IT exchange program bringing six Iraqi information technology professionals to work and study in the U.S. from January 24 to April 27.

The six Iraqi technology interns will spend 12 weeks working with some of the leading technology firms in the country, acquiring critical IT and entrepreneurial skills that they will use to help develop the technology industry in Iraq.

MIAMI, FL - The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Dolphin interdicted 630 pounds of marijuana Tuesday December 8, 2009, while on patrol in the Caribbean Sea.

The Dolphin crew conducted a boarding of an 18-foot, Florida-registered pleasure craft about nine miles west of Bimini, Bahamas, and located 12 duffel bags and three trash bags filled with bricks of marijuana.

The Dolphin crew transferred the marijuana, the suspected smugglers and their boat to the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Chandeleur.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is investigating the case.

After being shuttered due to censorship threats, A Soldier's Perspective returns as a leading blog for candid military commentary.

CHESTERFIELD, MO - Cat5 Commerce, a niche online retailer, has acquired A Soldier's Perspective, a top military blog currently at the epicenter of a controversial free-speech battle.

By  J.P. Lawrence

COB BASRA, IRAQ - Few things put a smile on a Soldier's face faster than getting a care package during a deployment.

For Soldiers, these boxes are a reminder of home, a wanton luxury, a treasure chest filled with cookies and cakes and treats.

While many boxes come from family and friends, some boxes hail from unfamiliar addresses, from men and women back home who chose to adopt and supply Soldiers they do not know.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The remains of a U.S. paratrooper reported missing since early this month in western Afghanistan was recovered on November 29, 2009 according to military officials.

The body of Army Sgt. Brandon Islip was recovered from the Bala Murgahab River in Badghis province after a local Afghan resident provided information on his whereabouts, officials said.