Washington: The Pentagon has cleared Commander of US and NATO forces in Afghanistan Gen John Allen, of charges of professional misconduct over email exchanges with a socialite, a US official says.
"Secretary Panetta has been informed that the Department's Office of Inspector General has concluded an investigation into a matter involving General John Allen, US Marine Corps. The Secretary was pleased to learn that allegations of professional misconduct were not substantiated by the investigation," Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.
"The Secretary has complete confidence in the continued leadership of General Allen, who is serving with distinction in Afghanistan," Little said in a statement, ending all speculations against one of best American commanders.
Gen Allen's decorated career came to a halt last year after his name appeared in the scam following which Gen (rtd) David Petraeus, the CIA Director resigned citing extra marital affairs.
Allen who was nominated by the US President, Barack Obama, to head the NATO Command was temporarily suspended and the Congressional hearing in this regard was stopped.
Allen is scheduled to hand over the Afghan command next month.
PTI
First Published: Wednesday, January 23, 2013, 09:09