DJOU STATEMENT ON CHANGE IN MILITARY LEADERSHIP IN AFGHANISTAN

Washington, DC — Congressman Charles Djou (HI-01) released the following statement regarding the decision to relieve General Stanley McChrystal of command in Afghanistan and replace him with General David Petraeus:

“As a military officer in the Army Reserve, I respect the authority of the Commander in Chief. President Obama had every right to dismiss General McChrystal.  The comments made by the General and his staff were inappropriate and showed poor judgment.

“I am confident that General David Petraeus will bring the necessary skills and vision to ensure a smooth transition in leadership. As we move forward, we must all re-commit ourselves to turning back al-Qaeda and the Taliban. For our men and women in uniform, this will mean continuing their exemplary work. For Congress, and particularly the members of the Armed Services Committee, this will mean ensuring our brave troops get the resources they need to secure victory in Afghanistan and return home safely.

“I stand ready to work with my colleagues to support our military and diplomatic corps who are giving their blood, sweat and lives to achieve success in a critical mission.”

Congressman Djou is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve and represents the Congressional district which is home to the U.S. Pacific Command, U.S. Army Pacific, U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. Pacific Air Force, Pearl Harbor, Camp H.M. Smith, and Fort Shafter.

###