KABUL, Afghanistan — Lt. Gen. David M. Rodriguez arrived in Afghanistan yesterday to assume his role as deputy commander, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan. This marks his second time to serve in this country. He was the commanding general, 82d Airborne Division/commanding general, Combined Joint Task Force 76, out of Bagram Air Field, from February 2007 to April 2008.
In his new position, Lt. Gen. Rodriguez will report directly to International Security Assistance Force and USFOR-A Commander Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal. He will direct the day-to-day operations and ensure efficient command and control of U.S. forces in Afghanistan and continue effective integration and coordination between U.S. and coalition forces operating under NATO/ISAF.
Lt. Gen. Rodriguez cited "the monumental deeds of many courageous, determined and committed men and women from across the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, working for better opportunities for the future of the Afghan people. Their spirit highlights the coalition's enduring commitment to this nation."
Lt. Gen. Rodriguez entered the Army in 1976, graduating with a bachelor's degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He also holds a master's degree in Military Art and Science from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and a master's degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College.
During his early career, Lt. Gen. Rodriguez served in infantry and ranger units. After command and staff courses, he saw service in Operation Desert Shield/Storm as the Operations and later executive officer of 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment.
He was promoted to brigadier general in 2002, and served in a variety of assignments, including command tours as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
Lt. Gen. Rodriguez was most recently the senior military assistant to Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates in Washington D.C.
Date Taken: | 06.25.2009 |
Date Posted: | 06.25.2009 01:06 |
Story ID: | 35588 |
Location: | KABUL, AF |
Web Views: | 479 |
Downloads: | 458 |
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