Nicholson to replace Campbell as NATO commander in Afghanistan

WASHINGTON (APP) - The United States announced the appointment of the US Army commander of NATO land forces to replace Gen John F Campbell as the commander of US and NATO forces in Afghanistan.

Army Lt Gen John W “Mick” Nicholson Jr has an extensive command experience in Afghanistan and around the world, Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Cook said.

The nomination and Nicholson’s accompanying promotion to four-star rank require Senate confirmation.

“I am absolutely confident in the man the president intends to nominate to take Gen Campbell’s place when his work in Afghanistan is completed,” Defense Secretary Ash Carter said in a statement, about the newly appointed General who has served as the director of the Pakistan/Afghanistan Coordination Cell for the Joint Staff, and deputy commander” Stability of ISAF Regional Command South”.

Lt Gen Nicholson has led soldiers at all levels from platoon to division in airborne, ranger, mechanized, Stryker and light infantry units in five different infantry divisions, and the 75th Ranger Regiment.

He commanded the 82nd Airborne Division, reestablishing global response force capabilities, and commanded NATO’s Allied Land Command.

“He knows what it means to lead a responsive and nimble force, and how to build the capacity of our partners to respond to immediate and long term threats and remain adaptable to confront evolving challenges,” Secretary Carter said.

Carter said that Gen. Nicholson understands the importance and complexity of the mission in Afghanistan, having served in multiple capacities including chief of  staff of operations for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and U.S. Forces Afghanistan.