Clapper Praises Rogers’ Nomination as Next Cyber Chief

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31, 2014 – Director of National Intelligence James R. Clapper has praised President Barack Obama’s nomination of Navy Vice Adm. Michael S. Rogers to be the next commander of U.S. Cyber Command, director of the National Security Agency and chief of the Central Security Service.

In his statement, Clapper also praised Richard Ledgett on his appointment to serve as the NSA deputy director.

The text of Clapper’s statement follows:

“Today, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel announced that Vice Adm. Michael S. Rogers is President Obama’s nominee to be the next commander of U.S. Cyber Command. In addition, Secretary Hagel announced that he has designated Vice Adm. Rogers to serve as director of the National Security Agency and chief of the Central Security Service.

“Mike’s Navy career spans more than 30 years of distinguished service to the nation, and he is highly respected throughout the Intelligence Community and Department of Defense. He served in numerous leadership and cryptological roles, including the director for intelligence for both the Joint Chiefs of Staff and U.S. Pacific Command.

“I worked with Mike when I was the undersecretary of defense for intelligence and he was the director of intelligence for the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He is a dedicated career intelligence officer who deeply understands signals intelligence and cyber operations, which makes him uniquely qualified to lead the NSA and U.S. Cyber Command missions.

“I would also like to congratulate Richard Ledgett on his appointment to serve as the NSA deputy director. Rick was the first ODNI national intelligence manager for cyber, and has had a remarkable career in signals intelligence. His keen insight of the entire intelligence enterprise will serve the NSA and the Intelligence Community well.

“I know Mike and Rick will make a great team, and I look forward to working with them. Their combined leadership will support and strengthen intelligence integration across the community and help keep our nation safe.”