Divisions, squadrons and carrier battle groups-and the people who serve in them-keep flowing toward the Persian Gulf, steadily building up a formidable force that many observers believe will invade Iraq before spring. The American Forces Information Service reported Thursday more than 100,000 troops from all services were serving in the region controlled by U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which includes the Middle East, Central Asia and eastern Africa. Of those, 9,000 people are involved in supporting ongoing efforts against terrorists in Afghanistan, and would not be counted in the buildup for Iraq. According to the service, the forces ready to wage...
