Gen. John Allen will not pursue the top U.S. military post in Europe after all. According to various media, the former U.S. commander in Afghanistan — who was picked to lead the U.S. forces in Europe and nominated last year — is going to retire.
President Obama referred to Mr. Allen’s “health issues within his family” in making the announcement, according to a report in Politico.
“He worked tirelessly to strengthen our coalition through his leadership of the International Security Assistance Force, and to improve our relations with the Afghan government,” Mr. Obama said, according to Politico. “Above all, he cares deeply for the men and women in uniform who serve our nation — as well as their families.”
Mr. Obama called Mr. Allen “one of America’s finest military leaders, a true patriot and a man I have come to respect greatly.”
Mr. Allen’s career took a bit of a hit in recent months, as he was tied to an adultery scandal involving Gen. David Petraeus and his biographer. Mr. Allen was cleared of any misconduct charges weeks ago, clearing the path for the post in Europe.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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