    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [April 21, 1999]
    [Pages 589-590]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Nomination of General Eric K. Shinseki To Be Chief of Staff of the United States Army
    April 21, 1999

        I am pleased to nominate Gen. Eric K. Shinseki to be Chief of Staff
    of the United States Army. If confirmed by the Senate, General Shinseki
    will succeed Gen. Dennis J. Reimer, who
    will be retiring later this year after 37 years of distinguished active
    duty service.

    [[Page 590]]

        General Shinseki currently serves as the Vice Chief of Staff of the
    U.S. Army. Immediately prior to assuming his present position, he served
    as Commander in Chief of United States Army Europe and concurrently as
    Commander of NATO's Stabilization Force in Bosnia. He brings to the
    position of Chief of Staff extensive operational and joint experience as
    well as proven leadership ability and a deep concern for the soldiers,
    civilians, and families of the United States Army.

        During his distinguished career, General Shinseki served two combat
    tours in Vietnam and has commanded at every level from company through
    theater army. As Commander of the Stabilization Force, he directed the
    operations of the three Multinational Divisions in Bosnia, promoting
    implementation of the Dayton accords.

        General Shinseki assumes the post of Chief of Staff as the U.S. Army
    proudly celebrates 224 years of dedicated service to our Nation in war
    and peace. With General Shinseki as Chief of Staff, I am confident that
    the total Army--active, Reserve, and National Guard--will continue its
    tradition of excellence, dedication, and professionalism as it enters
    the 21st century.