Video: Obama Announces McChrystal Out, Petraeus In in Afghanistan

You are here: Blog / Video: Obama Announces McChrystal Out, Petraeus In in Afghanistan

2:26 PM, Jun 23, 2010 • By MARY KATHARINE HAM

Single Page Print Larger Text Smaller Text Alerts

The tone is respectful to McChrystal, but mindful of his breach. Obama takes the opportunity to reinforce the American commitment to victory in Afghanistan rather than back away from it. And, the speech is blissfully, only eight minutes long.

McChrystal's statement:

"This morning the President accepted my resignation as Commander of U.S. and NATO Coalition Forces in Afghanistan," Gen. McChrystal said. "I strongly support the President's strategy in Afghanistan and am deeply committed to our coalition forces, our partner nations, and the Afghan people. It was out of respect for this commitment -- and a desire to see the mission succeed -- that I tendered my resignation.

"It has been my privilege and honor to lead our nation's finest."