The head of the U.S. military's Southern Command will retire later this year, a high-profile departure that comes as the Trump administration strikes alleged drug-carrying boats in the Caribbean and puts pressure on the Venezuelan government.

Adm. Alvin Holsey announced his retirement from the U.S. Navy in a statement posted to social media late Thursday. He said he is retiring after 37 years in the Navy in mid-December — just over a year after he was first promoted to lead Southern Command, or SOUTHCOM.

"I am confident that you will forge ahead, focused on your mission that strengthens our nation and ensures its longevity as a beacon of freedom around the globe," Holsey wrote.

Adm. Alvin Holsey, commander of U.S. Southern Command, speaking at a hearing of the Senate Armed Ser

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