US Senate confirms Dempsey as Joint Chiefs Chairman

The US Senate has approved the nomination of General Martin Dempsey for a second two-year term as Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The Senate confirmed Dempsey to the post by a voice vote and also approved the nomination of Admiral Sandy Winnefeld to the post of Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
"I would like to congratulate General Martin Dempsey and Admiral Sandy Winnefeld on their Senate confirmation to second terms as Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff," US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said after their confirmation.
"Both of these proven leaders are tireless advocates for our men and women in uniform and innovative thinkers who are helping to shape the military of the future. I strongly value their counsel, as does (US) President (Barack) Obama," he said.

"Their continued service and wise advice will be essential as we continue to draw down from the war in Afghanistan and confront other national security challenges," Hagel said.
Following their confirmation, Senator John McCain said he continues to be seriously concerned about the advice that the top military leaders have given the President and National Security Council regarding the most serious and time-sensitive crises in the world today.

"More than 100,000 Syrians have been slaughtered in what General Dempsey himself has called 'a human tragedy' yet we have done nothing to stop it.
He cites 'the complexity and the myriad actors that are involved' as the reason he has not recommended military action," McCain said.

"My votes in the Armed Services Committee against rubber-stamping General Dempsey and Admiral Winnefeld's nominations reflect my continuing concerns about the professional military advice they have given the President," he said.