The
Clinton campaign Monday trumpeted the endorsement of retired four-star Marine Gen. John Allen, who led coalition forces in Afghanistan and said he took a rare step into politics to "speak up and be heard."
In his statement released by the campaign, Allen — who also served as
U.S. envoy to the coalition fighting the Islamic State — said he had "no doubt" presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton "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."
"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 added.
"However, it requires continued leadership and engagement in the world, continued partnership with our allies, and a clear understanding of our adversaries."
"This has been a very personal decision for me," the retired Marine general said.
"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."
In 2013, Allen wound up on the periphery of a scandal that engulfed former
Gen. David Petraeus, exchanging emails with the Tampa socialite who prompted a probe that ultimately uncovered Petraeus' affair with his female biographer. Allan wasn't accused of any wrongdoing.