Because if the security situation were improving, we wouldn't have to do this! Right? The great Walter Pincus:

'Help Wanted' Ad Belies Report on Iraq Security
A week ago today, Gen. David H. Petraeus started his rounds on Capitol Hill, reporting that security in Iraq was improving to the point that a small number of troops could begin coming home by year's end.

But 10 days ago, [that is, before the ponies for everybody speech] his commanders in Baghdad began advertising for private contractors to work in combat-supply warehouses on U.S. bases throughout Iraq because half the soldiers who had been working in the warehouses were needed for patrols, combat and protection of U.S. forces.

"With the increased insurgent activity, unit supply personnel must continue to pull force protection along with convoy escort and patrol duties," according to a statement of work that accompanied the Sept. 7 request for bidders [before the speech] from Multi-National Force-Iraq.

Listen to what they say only to decode their lies. Watch what they do.

But let's not be negative! There's a bright side:

More money for contractors!

Invoices!

Mission accomplished!

UPDATE I missed that Xan caught the Pincus story here. As usual, WaPo buried on A17 what should have been on A1, as Xan points out.