    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [April 21, 1999]
    [Page 590]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Nomination of Lieutenant General James L. Jones,
    Jr., To Be Commandant of the United
    States Marine Corps
    April 21, 1999

        I am pleased to nominate Lt. Gen. James L. Jones, Jr., for
    appointment to the grade of general and assignment as Commandant of the
    United States Marine Corps. If confirmed by the Senate, General Jones
    will succeed Gen. Charles C. Krulak, who
    will be retiring later this year after 35 years of distinguished active
    duty service.
        General Jones brings to the job of Commandant a wealth of
    operational experience, exceptional leadership skills, and strong
    strategic vision.
        During his distinguished career, General Jones served a combat tour
    in Vietnam, commanded the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, served as
    Chief of Staff of Joint Task Force Provide Promise in Bosnia and
    Macedonia, and was Commanding General of the 2d Marine Division. As
    Deputy Chief of Staff of the Marine Corps for Plans, Policy and
    Operations and, most recently, as Senior Military Assistant to Secretary
    of Defense, he has demonstrated keen insight into defense policy and the
    crucial role of the Marine Corps in protecting our national security.
        General Jones assumes the post of Commandant as the Marine Corps
    takes on the challenges of the 21st century. With General Jones as
    Commandant, I am confident that the Marine Corps will continue its long
    and proud tradition of defending America's interests and values.