[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 35, Number 16 (Monday, April 26, 1999)]
[Page 689]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Nomination of Lt. Gen. 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.