[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 2 (Monday, January 15, 2007)]
[Page 15]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on United States Military Personnel Recommendations 
From Secretary of Defense 
Robert M. Gates

January 5, 2007

    I am pleased to accept the recommendations of Secretary Gates for 
several key positions in our Nation's Armed Forces. These leaders are 
accomplished military professionals whose experience, skill, and 
dedication will enable them to successfully lead our troops as they 
protect our country.
    General George Casey has been a strong and effective commander of 
the Multi-National Force in Iraq. I have come to depend on his wise 
counsel and solid judgment in our efforts to protect the American people 
in the war on terror. I look forward to working with him in his new role 
as Chief of Staff of the United States Army. General Casey will succeed 
General Peter Schoomaker, who has done an outstanding job in helping 
transform the U.S. Army to confront the challenges of the 21st century. 
I wish General Schoomaker all the best as he retires from active duty 
after a distinguished career.
    Lieutenant General Dave Petraeus will succeed General Casey. General 
Petraeus is a soldier of vision and determination. His service in Iraq 
has equipped him with expertise in irregular warfare and stability 
operations and an understanding of the enemy we face. I am confident 
that General Petraeus has the right experience, leadership skills, and 
judgment to be an outstanding commander of MNF-I.
    Admiral William J. Fallon, currently the commander of U.S. Pacific 
Command, has earned a reputation as one of our country's foremost 
military strategists. His experience and leadership will be critical to 
helping our country achieve victory over the radicals and extremists who 
threaten freedom. He will be an excellent commander of U.S. Central 
Command.
    Admiral Fallon will succeed General John Abizaid, who has overseen 
some of our military's most extraordinary efforts to spread freedom and 
democracy. He has earned the respect and admiration of a grateful 
nation, and his service is a model for those who wear our country's 
uniform. As he retires, I express my deep appreciation for all he has 
done for America.

Note: In his statement, the President referred to Lt. Gen. David H. 
Petraeus, USA, commanding general, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center and 
Fort Leavenworth. This item was not received in time for publication in 
the appropriate issue.