Retired Marine general endorses Clinton

Retired Marine Gen. John R. Allen on Monday announced he is endorsing Hillary Clinton for the presidency.

“I have no doubt that she is the leader we need at this time to keep our country safe, and I trust her with that most sacred responsibility as commander-in-chief,” he said in a statement.

{mosads}Allen, who retired as a four-star general, said his experiences in the military have taught him the qualities needed to lead the nation.

“Through 37 years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, I saw some of the toughest challenges that our nation faces around the world, and I know that America has the power to meet those challenges,” he said.

“However, it requires continued leadership and engagement in the world, continued partnership with our allies, and a clear understanding of our adversaries,” he added.

“It requires patience and a deep comprehension of the international landscape to make smart decisions about when and how to use military force as well as an understanding that other tools of American power such as diplomacy and development aid – that will keep armed forces out of harm’s way unless it is absolutely necessary. And it requires a leader who wants to understand these complex issues and seek advice and counsel.”

Allen added that Clinton, the presumptive Democratic nominee, possesses the traits necessary to guide the nation.

“Hillary Clinton is all of those things,” said Allen, a former deputy commander of U.S. Central Command.

“This has been a very personal decision for me,” added Allen.

“I have stayed out of the political arena my entire adult life, but given the complexities of issues facing our country today and its longtime allies, I felt compelled to speak up and be heard.”