US ground troops are poised to depart for Kandahar to relieve Marines in place in the southern Afghan city, according to media reports. Troops from the 101st Airborne Division are "prepared to head for Kandahar," ABC television last night.

The troops are expected to leave the United States in a matter of days and will be in position by mid-January. The Army division will replace the Marines currently stationed there, according to the report. Bureau Report