Free Republic

NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - The nation's largest companies have become leaders in extending rights to gay, bisexual and transgender employees, according to a published report Monday. The Washington Post, citing a study by the advocacy group Human Rights Campaign, reports that among the Fortune 500, 216 companies, or more than 40 percent, provided domestic partner benefits. That's about 10 times the number that offered those benefits a decade ago.

<p>U.S. forces advanced even closer to Baghdad Wednesday, wiping out one Republican Guard division and nearly destroying another as they geared up for an all-out assault on the Iraqi capital.</p> <p>Some American units are reportedly within 19 miles of Baghdad, while others are within 30.</p>