FILE - This Oct. 1, 2008 file photo shows Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward, Commander of U.S. Africa Command, speaking at the Pentagon. A senior U.S. official says Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has demoted, Ward, the former head of U.S. Africa Command who was accused of spending thousands of dollars on lavish travel and other unauthorized expenses. (AP Photo/Haraz N. Ghanbari, File)
General demoted for lavish travel and spending
FILE - This Oct. 1, 2008 file photo shows Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward, Commander of U.S. Africa Command, speaking at the Pentagon. A senior U.S. official says Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has demoted, Ward, the former head of U.S. Africa Command who was accused of spending thousands of dollars on lavish travel and other unauthorized expenses. (AP Photo/Haraz N. Ghanbari, File)
By LOLITA C. BALDOR
Associated Press /
November 13, 2012
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Major general, or two-star, is the highest rank to which an officer can be promoted by regular military action. Becoming a three-star — lieutenant general — or a four-star general requires a presidential nomination and confirmation by Congress. It, therefore, is not considered permanent and lasts only as long as the person is serving in a job of that rank.
That technical demotion is not uncommon as generals move from job to job and unexpected delays occur. It would not have affected Ward’s ability to retire as a four-star, if he had been cleared of the charges.
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