Document: SECDEF Ash Carter Statement on Gen. Joseph Dunford’s Nomination to Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff

May 5, 2015 12:50 PM

The following is the May 5, 2015 statement from Secretary of Defense Ash Carter on the nomination of Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Joseph Dunford to Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

I welcome President Obama’s decision to nominate Marine Corps Gen. Joseph Dunford to serve as the 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Air Force Gen. Paul Selva to serve as the 10th Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Gen. Dunford has been an infantry officer at every level, and Gen. Selva has been an innovator throughout his career. They’re exemplary leaders. And they both have the strategic perspective – and operational experience – to help guide our military and advise the president at a time of much change in the world. I look forward to their sound counsel and to working with them to protect the country and meet the needs of the finest fighting force the world has ever known.

While there will be a time in the future for proper tributes, I also applaud the careers of our current chairman and vice chairman, Gen. Martin Dempsey and Adm. James Winnefeld. I thank them both for their steady leadership in these challenging times, their advice to me and President Obama, and their many years of dedicated service to our country.

Sam LaGrone

Sam LaGrone

Sam LaGrone is the editor of USNI News. He has covered legislation, acquisition and operations for the Sea Services since 2009 and spent time underway with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the Canadian Navy.
Follow @samlagrone

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