Air Force Gen. Michael Hayden, head of the Central Intelligence Agency since May 2006, has decided to retire from the Air Force but wants to remain as head of CIA. When Hayden, a long-time intelligence official, received the nomination to lead CIA, some were concerned about placing an active military officer at the helm. The Senate had no such reservations, however. In an April 23 statement, Hayden writes, “My personal decision to conclude an immensely rewarding Air Force career is a product of practical considerations related to military retirement.” He has served in the Air Force for nearly 39 years.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.