Afghanistan a top priority: Centcom chief

KABUL as a continuing mission.

Austin received the Centcom flag from Marine Corps Gen. James N. Mattis, who would retire after a four-decade military career, the American Forces Press Service reported.

While praising the command’s men and women for their professionalism, he noted in the last decade, Centcom had fought two wars thousands of miles from America’s shores.

Characterising Afghanistan as his top priority, Austin pledged to do all he could to ensure the success of the mission there. The US and its allies would continue to work with the Afghans so their security forces could protect their people.

He promised the commitment would continue beyond 2014, when Afghan forces would take full security responsibility for their country.

Austin said the military achievements in Iraq and Afghanistan had been incredible. “The fact is, the full story has not been written. That said, these are historic and challenging times, and much more will be required of us in the days ahead…”

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