The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) is a Unified Combatant Command unit of the U.S. armed forces, under the operational control of the U.S. Secretary of Defense.
Its main jurisdiction is in Eastern Europe (such as the Balkans) and in the Middle East. CENTCOM has been the main American presence in many wars, including the Persian Gulf War, the Kosovo Conflict, and the 2003 invasion of Iraq. As of today, the unit is deployed throughout the Middle East, mainly in Iraq, Afghanistan and a few other countries in that area.
The commander of this unit is General John Abizaid, who took command on July 7, 2003; replacing General Tommy Franks. His chief of staff is Major General R. Steven Whitcomb. Lieutenant General Lance L. Smith is the Deputy Commanding General.
