Obama Chooses Dempsey To Be Next Joint Chiefs Head

U.S. President Barack Obama (left) with new Joint Chiefs chairman General Martin Dempsey

President Barack Obama has chosen Army General Martin Dempsey to succeed Admiral Mike Mullen as chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff.

During an appearance at the White House on May 30, Obama praised Dempsey, calling him "one of our nation's most respected and combat-tested generals."

Obama also announced he's picked Navy Admiral James Winnefeld to be vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs.

The president said he has chosen Army General Ray Odierno to replace Dempsey as Army chief of staff.

Obama's announcement moves the president close to completing the rebuilding of his national security team.

compiled from agency reports