Obama announces Marine general as Joint Chiefs chairman
By LOLITA C. BALDOR, Associated Press
May 5, 2015 11:05 AM CDT
FILE - In this March 11, 2014, file photo, Air Force Gen. Paul Selva testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, March 11, 2014 , before the Senate Armed Services Committee hearing to consider the nomination of Selva for reappointment to the grade of general and to be Commander, United States...   (Associated Press)

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has announced his choice of Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford Jr. to be the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

If confirmed by the Senate, the 59-year-old Dunford would become Obama's chief military adviser.

Obama says Dunford is one of the most admired officers in our military.

Dunford is a widely respected, combat-hardened commander who led the Afghanistan war coalition during a key transitional period in 2013-14. He would succeed Army Gen. Martin Dempsey.

Dunford is expected to be easily confirmed by the Senate.

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