Sign in Subscribe
Government agencies

General David H. Petraeus to Lead CIA in September, Following 40-Year Army Career

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

President Barack Obama has announced his intention to nominate Army Gen. David H. Petraeus to succeed Leon E. Panetta as CIA director, pending Senate confirmation. Petraeus, who plans to hang up his uniform in September, is a four-decade Army veteran, and his leadership has been instrumental in shaping modern warfare. He is credited with developing the Army/Marine Corps Counterinsurgency Manual and leading U.S. and coalition forces through the "surge" in Iraq. Petraeus' background in intelligence and his flexibility will be valuable assets in his new role.

Key Takeaways:

  • Petraeus has been nominated by President Obama to succeed Leon E. Panetta as CIA director, following his retirement from the Army in September.
  • He will lead the CIA after serving as commander of U.S. Central Command for 20 months and assuming command in Afghanistan on July 4, 2010.
  • Petraeus' 40-year Army career has been marked by significant achievements, including the development of the Army/Marine Corps Counterinsurgency Manual and leadership through the "surge" in Iraq.
  • He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1974 and holds a doctorate from Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs.
  • Petraeus' experience in intelligence and his adaptability will be crucial in his new role at the CIA.
  • Obama praised Petraeus' ability to stay ahead of nimble adversaries and his understanding of the importance of sharing and coordinating information.

Statistics:

  • 40 years: The length of Petraeus' Army career, marked by significant achievements and leadership roles.
  • 1974: The year Petraeus graduated from the U.S. Military Academy.
  • 20 months: The duration of Petraeus' command of U.S. Central Command.
  • 145,000: The approximate number of U.S. and coalition forces surged into Iraq under Petraeus' leadership.
  • 100,000: The approximate number of Iraqis trained by U.S. and coalition forces during the surge.

Sources:

  • "Obama Nominates Petraeus for CIA Director," Army.Mil, July 2011.

Read more