WASHINGTON — Donald Trump will name another retired military general on his staff by selecting retired Marine general John Kelly to head the Department of Homeland Security.

Kelly, 66, the former head of the U.S. Southern Command, would join retired generals James Mattis (nominated for Defense secretary) and Michael Flynn (national security adviser) as members of Trump's staff or Cabinet.

A person familiar with the transition confirmed Kelly's selection, speaking on condition of anonymity because it has not been made official. LEE APPROVED SOURCING

During his years in the military, Kelly criticized various Obama administration positions, including security along the U.S.-Mexico border and closing the detention center at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He also raised concerns about maintaining the current standards to serve in combat roles in the military after the administration opened spots in combat units to women.

During his 40-year career in the Marine Corps, Kelly led troops into combat in Iraq; he also lost a son during war in Afghanistan.

He retired earlier this year.

A massive department created in the wake of 9/11, Homeland Security duties range from counter-terrorism to enforcing immigration laws.

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