General 'sick of Rumsfeld' stands down

A PENTAGON general with a key role in running the war against terrorism who was publicly chastised by Donald Rumsfeld, the US defence secretary, has suddenly requested early retirement.

"It is a square hole and I am a round peg," said Lt Gen Gregory Newbold, who is stepping down as director of operations on the joint chiefs of staff and returning to civilian life in the summer.

He suggested that he would be happier working in the power tools section of a DIY store.

"I'm looking forward to a job that doesn't have the intensity and lack the quality of life that this one has."

Gen Newbold, 53, did not mention Mr Rumsfeld in an interview with the Washington Post, but several sources said he had grown tired of the Pentagon chief's abrasive style.