Trump replaces Mattis with Patrick Shanahan as acting Secy of Defense sooner than reported

There was no need for Mattis to stay any longer.  He did a great job. 
But, the mission is entering a new phase that dictates a change in leadership at the Pentagon.

NY Post reports President Trump announced in a tweet on Sunday that Defense Secretary James Mattis will leave the administration at the first of the year instead of at the end of February as had been planned.

“I am pleased to announce that our very talented Deputy Secretary of Defense, Patrick Shanahan, will assume the title of Acting Secretary of Defense starting January 1, 2019. Patrick has a long list of accomplishments while serving as Deputy, & previously Boeing. He will be great!,” Trump wrote.

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