Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn assumed directorship of the Defense Intelligence Agency on July 24 during a ceremony at JB Anacostia-Bolling, D.C. Flynn succeeded Army Lt. Gen. Ronald Burgess as the senior military intelligence advisor to the Defense Secretary and Joint Chiefs Chairman. Burgess, who led DIA since March 2009, is retiring after 38 years of uniformed service. “Military intelligence is now far more integrated, far more effective, and more vital than ever to our ability to defend this country, and Ron Burgess has been instrumental in that transformation,” said Defense Secretary Leon Panetta during the change-of-command ceremony. President Obama tapped Flynn, who was serving as assistant director of national intelligence for partner engagement, for the top DIA post in April. “DIA stands out as the world’s premier military intelligence agency. There are simply none better,” said Flynn upon assuming command. (AFPS report by Cheryl Pellerin)
The U.K. and the U.S. will continue to enjoy access to the ports, airfield, and workshops at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean for at least another century, under a deal inked between the U.K. and Mauritius May 22.