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LaNeve to lead US Army after George's departure
The Pentagon has appointed General Christopher LaNeve as acting Chief of Staff of the US Army, following the resignation of Randy George, who held the position since 2023. The move was confirmed by CBS News, a BBC partner in the US.
Background and timing
The Army's top post typically spans four years, but George's exit comes amid a broader reshuffle within the US military led by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Since taking office, Hegseth has replaced over a dozen senior leaders, with LaNeve among those elevated.
LaNeve, previously the Vice Chief of Staff, assumes the role as the US military grapples with the ongoing conflict in Iran and internal restructuring efforts.
LaNeve's career trajectory
This is the third promotion LaNeve has received under Hegseth's tenure. He was named Vice Chief of Staff in February 2026 after James Mingus retired early. At the time, Hegseth praised him as a "generational leader" capable of revitalizing the Army's combat ethos and modernizing its forces.
Before that, LaNeve served as Hegseth's senior military assistant starting in April 2025, replacing Lieutenant General Jennifer Short, who was dismissed shortly after Hegseth took office.
Military experience and deployments
LaNeve, a 36-year veteran, joined the Army in 1990 after graduating from the University of Arizona. His career includes command roles such as leading the Eighth Army in South Korea and the 82nd Airborne Division. He has also served in multiple combat deployments, including tours in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Pentagon's endorsement
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell described LaNeve as a "battle-tested leader with decades of operational experience," adding that he is "completely trusted by Secretary Hegseth to execute the administration's vision flawlessly."
"He brings unmatched expertise to this critical role during a pivotal moment for the Army."
Sean Parnell, Pentagon spokesperson
