Senate confirms McKiernan command

WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate has confirmed Gen. David D. McKiernan as commander of the U.S. forces in Afghanistan, a recently created position.

U.S. President George Bush congratulated McKiernan on his confirmation Thursday, saying in a statement the general would have authority over nearly all U.S. forces in Afghanistan, "ensuring greater coordination in operational planning and execution."

In addition to his new role, McKiernan will still serve as commander of the International Security Assistance Force, Bush said.