Hillary Clinton on the Retirement of General Jones

Retirement of General Jones

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

October 8, 2010

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General Jim Jones has spent a lifetime serving our country with honor and distinction. In war and in peace, from foreign battlefields to the highest levels of our government, he has exemplified the best traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States. I have been honored to serve with him and to call him my friend. As National Security Advisor he brought a steady hand and clear vision to an unforgiving agenda. His leadership was crucial in winding down the combat mission in Iraq, refocusing the war in Afghanistan, and advancing our nation's interests and values around the world. America is more secure and the world is more stable because of Jim's tireless efforts. He will be sorely missed, but I am pleased that Jim will now be able to spend more time with his wife Diane and their wonderful family.

General Jones leaves Marine-sized shoes to fill, but we are fortunate that a public servant as talented and dedicated as Tom Donilon has agreed to take on the task. I have known Tom for many years and he brings deep experience and valuable skills to this job. He has a proven ability to translate big-picture vision into concrete action. As Deputy National Security Advisor, Tom has been a trusted member of our team and has contributed to every major policy decision. I appreciate his support for the State Department and our diplomacy and development efforts around the world and I look forward to working closely with him to implement the President's agenda.