The Pentagon announced last week that the president has nominated Gen David L. Goldfein to be the next Air Force Chief of Staff.
In making the announcement, Department of Defense (DoD) Secretary Ash Carter called Gen Goldfein “one of the most proven strategic thinkers across our joint force.” “Dave’s extensive politico-military experience will be to our great benefit as we continue to accelerate our efforts to deal ISIL a lasting defeat,” Carter said.
Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James said “General Goldfein possess the experience and vision needed to address dynamic global challenges and increasing military demand.” Goldfein “knows how to build and sustain key partnerships, has important warfighting experience, and will exercise the critical judgement required to balance our manpower and resources as we shape tomorrow’s Air Force,” said James.
Gen. Goldfein is currently the Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, a position he has held since August 2015. Prior to that he was Director of the Joint Staff (August 2013-August 2015), Commander of U.S. Air Force Central Command, Southwest Asia (August 2011-August 2013), and Director of Operations, Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va.