Feb 19 2013

Statement on the Retirement of General John Allen

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today released the following statement on the retirement of General John Allen:

“It was with great regret that I learned from General Allen that he will be retiring and not assuming NATO Command.   General Allen informed me shortly after meeting with the President that due to personal family reasons, he will be seeking retirement.

“The nation owes a great debt to General Allen, who has been one of the most outstanding officers I have ever known.  He led the surge of troops in Afghanistan, delivered a strong blow against our enemies, and did an exceptional job building up the Afghan security forces.

“General Allen and his family have served this nation with distinction, and his leadership in the future will be missed.  I wish him and his family all the best, and know that he will continue to contribute to our great nation outside of military service."

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