By Dan Lamothe | The Washington Post

The Air Force is investigating a sexual-assault report against a retired four-star general who was on active duty at the time of the alleged incident, service officials said Friday.

Details about the case are scant, but Col Patrick Ryder, an Air Force spokesman, said the service will conduct a thorough investigation of Gen Arthur J. Lichte, who retired in 2010 after leading Air Mobility Command. Ryder declined to provide additional details, saying it would be inappropriate to do so.

“I can tell you that the Air Force takes all allegations of sexual assault or harassment very seriously,” Ryder said in a statement. “We are committed to upholding the high standards and values of our service and ensuring an environment of dignity and respect, where sexual assault or harassment is not tolerated, and where there is clear accountability placed on all Airmen at every level.”

Lichte could not immediately be reached for comment Friday evening. A voicemail and email left for him were not returned.

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