'Voices From Afghanistan' Exhibit Profiled In 'The Washington Post'

"The Post's" Style section highlights the exhibit at the Library of Congress, which showcases some of the thousands of handwritten scrolls and letters sent in by listeners to RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan. More

By Country / Iraq

Gates Sworn In As New U.S. Defense Chief

December 18, 2006

Robert Gates testifying during confirmation hearings in the Senate earlier this month (epa)

December 18, 2006 -- Robert Gates is the new U.S. secretary of defense.

He took the oath of office in a private event at the White House earlier today. He is due to attend a public swearing-in ceremony at the Pentagon later today.

That event will be attended by U.S. President George W. Bush, who has said he's looking for a "fresh perspective" on Iraq.

Gates, a former CIA director, replaces Donald Rumsfeld, who had served as Bush's defense chief since early 2001.

(compiled from agency reports)