Signs of improvement


Item:

A military source close to Gen. David Petraeus told Fox News that one of the first things the general will do when he takes over in Afghanistan is to modify the controversial rules of engagement to make it easier for U.S. troops to engage in combat with the enemy.

Troops on the ground and some military commanders have said the strict rules -- aimed at preventing civilian casualties -- have effectively forced the troops to fight with one hand tied behind their backs.

(One version of the story here.)

Even if the order is mostly a clarification of McChrystal's intent, it's a step in the right direction - for the troops, anyway.