Release of Supreme Allied Commander Transformation
August 27, 2007

North Atlantic Treaty Organization Defense Planning Committee member states have agreed to release Gen. Lance L. Smith as Supreme Allied Commander Transformation.

The NATO committee, following a request from the president of the United States, agreed with great regret to release Smith from his assignment as Supreme Allied Commander Transformation. They expressed to Smith, in the name of the NATO governments, lasting gratitude for his distinguished service.

The committee was informed that an officer will be nominated to succeed Smith, who plans to retire in January, 2008, with the same powers and functions and the grade of general or admiral, with the advice and consent of the United States Senate, while serving in that position. Smith will depart his command in November 2007.