Shanahan withdraws nomination as defense chief

WASHINGTON, June 18 (KUNA) -- US President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan has withdrew his nomination as defense secretary and that Secretary of the Army Mark Esper would become the new acting Pentagon chief.
In a tweet, Trump said Shanahan "who has done a wonderful job, has decided not to go forward with his confirmation process so that he can devote more time to his family." Trump added "I thank Pat for his outstanding service and will be naming Secretary of the Army, Mark Esper, to be the new Acting Secretary of Defense." "I know Mark, and have no doubt he will do a fantastic job," he remarked.
Esper served as an Infantry Officer with the 101st Airborne Division during the Gulf War in 1990-91. (end) si.mb