In his first public appearance since resigning last November as director of the Central Intelligence Agency, David H. Petraeus apologized for the “circumstances†that led him to step down and cause so much pain for his family and friends.
As my colleague, Michael R. Gordon reported on Monday, Mr. Petraeus intended to use the speech at an event honoring veterans and the R.O.T.C. last night to begin carving out a new role for himself in the private sector, speaking out on economic, energy and veteran issues.
“Needless to say, I join you keenly aware that I am regarded in a different light now than I was a year ago,†Mr. Petraeus, one of the nation’s most decorated four-star generals, said in remarks delivered at the University of California.
“I am also keenly aware that the reason for my recent journey was my own doing,†he said. “So please allow me to begin my remarks this evening by reiterating how deeply I regret â€" and apologize for â€" the circumstances that led to my resignation from the C.I.A. that caused such pain for my family, friends and supporters.â€
Mr. Petraeus stepped down after an F.B.I. investigation uncovered evidence that he had been involved in an extramarital affair with a biographer, Paula Broadwell. His resignation ended a career that included commanding the American-led coalition during the troop “surge†in Iraq and the military effort in Afghanistan.
Ms. Broadwell, the co-author of a biography of Mr. Petraeus, is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and spent 15 years in the military.
