Abizaid, John P. (John Philip Abizaid)

1951 - He was born on the 1st of April in Coleville, California.

1973 - His military education includes the United States Military Academy (USMA) at
            West Point, New York.

       - He earned a Master of Arts degree in Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard University
           in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.

       - He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant of Infantry upon graduation from the United
           States Military Academy (USMA) Class of June.

1983 - He jumped from a helicopter onto a landing strip in Grenada and ordered one of his Rangers
            to drive a bulldozer like a tank toward Cuban troops as he advanced behind it.

2003 - He assumed command of Central Command from General Tommy Franks during Iraq War and the
            overthrow of Saddam Hussein.
     
       - He succeeded General Tommy Franks as Commander, USCENTCOM, on the 7th of July, and was
            also elevated to the rank of 4-star general the same week.

2006 - On the 20th of December, it was announced that he would step down from his position.

2007 - He transferred command to Admiral William J. Fallon on the 16th of March.

2007 - He retired on the 1st of May, after 34 years of service.