The responsibility for arguably the most important command in the US military has been given to an Army general.
In a ceremony attended by top Pentagon officials on Friday, Lieutenant General Martin Dempsey assumed temporary command of the US Central Command, which oversees the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The change in command follows Navy Admiral William J. Fallon's relinquishing of his post after only one year.
US Defense Secretary Robert Gates noted the unusual circumstances facing General Dempsey, while at the same time voicing his confidence in him. (www.hxen.net)
"Marty (Lieutenant General Martin Dempsey) has had two of the most challenging assignments in our military today, command of operations in Baghdad and responsibility for training and equipping Iraqi security forces. While Centcom embraces far more than just Iraq, his extensive experience on the ground there will be of great value in the coming months."
A permanent replacement has yet to be nominated by President George W. Bush, but it is possible that Dempsey will get the job from among several other candidates.
Martin Dempsey has been deputy commander at Central Command since August 2007. A permanent commander must first be chosen by President Bush and then confirmed by the Senate. (www.hXen.com) |
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