HAMPTON, Va., Dec. 14 (UPI) -- Employees of the U.S. Joint Forces Command say they have been warned that about half its staff can expect to lose their positions.
Army Gen. Ray Odierno met with the command Monday, The Virginian-Pilot reported. Two employees told the newspaper Odierno said the work force would be cut by 40 percent to 50 percent.
Joint Forces Command, headquartered in Hampton, Va., has responsibilities that include fostering cooperation among the services, training and development of new ideas for combat. Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced plans to eliminate the command as part of a streamlining of the armed forces but has said part of its operation will be retained.
Odierno said the details of the cutback will be announced in the new year. He said what remains of the command will probably stay in Hampton, and the area is also one of the places being considered for U.S. Africa Command when it moves from Germany.
