George thanked military officials for their support in an email that was leaked to American media. "I know you will all continue to be laser-focused on the mission, continue to innovate, and tirelessly cut through bureaucracy to ensure our soldiers have what they need to win on the modern battlefield," George wrote. He stated that American soldiers are the best in the world and deserve "demanding training and courageous leaders of character." George said he looks back on his 38-year military career with "immense pride" and that he always chose to "stay for one more tour" because of the selfless people he had the privilege of serving with. On Thursday, Hegseth asked George to step down and retire immediately. On the same day, he also dismissed Major General William Green, the Chief of Chaplains, as well as General David Hodne, who has been leading the Army's Transformation and Training Command since last year. Earlier, in February, Hegseth ordered Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to dismiss Colonel David Butler, one of his key advisors. George's dismissal represents another example of tensions between Hegseth, a former National Guard officer who reached the rank of major, and the military's top leadership. Since taking office at the Pentagon, Hegseth has dismissed more than a dozen senior military officers. General Christopher LaNeve, who has been serving as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army since February, has been appointed as George's temporary successor. Republican lawmakers praised George after his dismissal. Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Mike Rogers, said that during George's tenure, significant progress was made in increasing recruitment, improving efficiency, and modernizing the army. "Throughout his long service to America, General George has demonstrated dedication, courage, and leadership," Rogers said. Congressman Rich McCormick said he would immediately investigate the reasons for the four-star general's dismissal. "I have never heard him say anything contrary to what the president is trying to achieve. I think he did a very good job preparing the army for war. That's why I would like to hear more, because it concerns me," McCormick said.