Clinton, troops have chance encounter

Former president, returneees from Iraq meet at Maine airport

Tuesday, January 10, 2006; Posted: 3:16 p.m. EST (20:16 GMT)

BANGOR, Maine (AP) -- Former President Bill Clinton surprised U.S. troops from Iraq when his refueling stop at the Bangor International Airport coincided with their arrival.

His plans for a quick departure Monday night were delayed when a problem was discovered with the aircraft, allowing him to join a line of local greeters who meet each plane carrying troops returning from overseas or leaving for duty.