Iraq War Ends, "Gone With The Wind" and Unseasonal Warmth

1. Today marks the end of the U.S. War in Iraq. The nine-year conflict had 1.5 million American troops in the Middle East, and more than 4,000 American soldiers died.

Patch will participate in a conference call with U.S. Rep Jim Moran (D-8) about the end of the war. We'll be live blogging starting at noon. 

2. On Dec. 15, 1791, the U.S. Bill of Rights was ratified by the Virginia General Assembly.

3. Have a drink today! On Dec. 15, 1933, the 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution officially repealed the 18th Amendment, which made the consumption, manufacture and distribution of alcohol illegal. 

4. Today in 1939, "Gone with the Wind" premièred at Loew's Grand Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. Directed by Victor Fleming, the Civil War-era epic received 10 Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Did Clark Gable win best actor? Nope. That went to Robert Donat for "Goodbye Mr. Chips".

5. U.S. Senator (D-VA) turns 57 today. Other birthdays include Roman emperor Nero (37-68), English musician Dave Clark (b.1942) and American actress Helen Slater (b.1963). 

6. There is a 50% chance of showers today after 1:00 p.m. and the high temperature will be 58 degrees. This evening, there is a 20% chance of rain and a low temp of 44, according to the National Weather Service.