Gen Franks faces Pentagon probe
WASHINGTON: The Pentagon’s inspector general is investigating undisclosed allegations of improprieties levelled at US Army General Tommy Franks, the commander who would likely lead US forces in any war against Iraq, the Pentagon confirmed on Tuesday.
Defence Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, however, expressed “full trust, respect and confidence” in Franks, calling him an enormously talented commander and a man of the highest integrity. The Washington Post, which first disclosed that the general was being investigated for abuse of office, said investigators have concluded tentatively that he violated some restrictions concerning his wife, Cathy.
The Post quoted an unnamed official as saying that Franks was alleged to have allowed his wife sit in on meetings at which classified information was discussed, had a soldier assist her on an almost full-time bases, and assigned a military bodyguard to protect her.
Another official told the newspaper that investigators also were looking into whether the government was properly reimbursed for all of her travel aboard military aircraft. The investigation, which began last summer, was expected to conclude in several weeks with recommendations for some disciplinary action, the Post said. Lieutenant Colonel Gary Keck, a Pentagon spokesman, confirmed that a Department of Defence inspector generals investigation was open on Franks.