2002 Press Releases

Commander-in-Chief of U.S. Central Command Visits Turkmenistan

Aug. 27, 2002

Commander-in-Chief of the United States Central Command General Tommy Franks arrived in Turkmenistan yesterday. General Franks, in Turkmenistan as part of tour of Central Asia, met today with President Niyazov to discuss current and future efforts in providing international humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, and in continuing to combat terrorism.

General Franks has served as Commander-in-Chief of the United States Central Command since June of 2000. Prior to that, he served as Commander of the Third Army/Army Forces Central Command, and also commanded the Second Infantry Division, Korea. He began his military career in 1967, and, among the numerous awards he has received are the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart.