U.S. House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Howard P. “Buck” McKeon today released the following statement regarding Secretary of Defense Robert Gates’ recommendation of General James Mattis (USMC) to be the next commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

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“General Mattis is a proven leader and would bring a wealth of combat experience in both Afghanistan and Iraq to CENTCOM. His background on the ground in the Middle East combined with his work with our NATO allies position him well to lead our military efforts at a critical time in both theaters. The challenges of the region go beyond those wars unfortunately. He will have an important role in dealing with Iran’s quest for a nuclear weapon. Additionally, he will have to work to address many of the drivers of instability that afflict too many of the countries in the CENTCOM area of responsibility.”