[Calpernia]

He said the terrorists have failed, despite those efforts, to slow the progress of Iraq toward a representative democracy. Each of the three elections in Iraq last year - in January, October and December - had more eligible voters participate and less violence, the general noted.

The terrorists also have failed to stop the growth of the Iraqi security forces. Alston said the Iraqi army and police now number 223,000. They guaranteed security during the election, he said, and will continue to get better as training continues and capabilities increase.

[Alamo-Girl]

Thanks for the ping!