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Report: Gen. Allen likely to decline top NATO post
John Allen, the four-star general who became embroiled late last year in a scandal over emails with a Florida socialite, will likely withdraw from consideration for his appointment as NATO commander, NBC News reports.
Allen was cleared of wrongdoing last month for over allegedly inappropriate emails he exchanged with Jill Kelley, a Tampa woman. The emails surfaced during an investigation into Kelley's claims that she had received threatening notes from Paula Broadwell, the woman was engaged in an extramarital affair with then CIA Director David Petraeus.
Allen, who was the top commander of American troops in Afghanistan, is back in the country and spending time with his family before making a final decision. But NBC reports at least three U.S. military officials have indicated Allen is likely to turn down nomination as NATO commander.
Late last month, White House press secretary Jay Carney said Allen's nomination "will proceed" and that officials in the administration "welcome the finding" exonerating the general of wrongdoing.
"We hope the Senate will consider it in a timely manner and we will press the Senate to do just that," Carney said.
Outgoing Defense Secretary Leon Panetta told CNN he had advised Allen not to rush to a decision.
"My recommendation to him was 'take your time,' " Panetta said. "Your country will always find a way to make use of your great services, but you have to make up your own mind."
