Italian Admiral Di Paola Takes Over as NATO's Top Military Officer

International herald Tribune

From Associated Press

June 27, 2008

BRUSSELS, Belgium An Italian admiral has taken took over as NATO's top military officer.

Giampaolo Di Paola replaced Canadian Gen. Ray Henault as head of NATO's Military Committee. Henault retired after serving his three-year term.

NATO's strategic commanders report to the head of the Military Committee, which serves as a link between the military and the alliance's political leadership.

The 63-year-old Di Paola was chosen by NATO defence chiefs in November ahead of rivals from Spain and Poland. A former submarine, frigate and aircraft carrier commander, he has been Italy's chief of defence staff since 2004.

Di Paola is the second Italian to hold the post since it was made a full time, elected position in 1963. European officers traditionally hold the top job while both NATO's strategic commanders are Americans.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/06/27/europe/EU-GEN-NATO-Top-Officer.php

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