WASHINGTON (CNN) -- As a career military officer, Lt. Gen. Karl Eikenberry is familiar with sacrifice for his country and long stretches away from home.

Karl Eikenberry testifies before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee March 26.

But he apparently doesn't want any more separation from his wife, Ching Eikenberry.

If he is approved as the next U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan he wants her to come with him.

That could collide with State Department rules. Afghanistan is designated "an unaccompanied post" by the department because of the dangers of the war and terror attacks. That means family members are not allowed.

Sen. John Kerry, D-Massachusetts, who as chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee was running Eikenberry's confirmation hearing last week, was in favor of the idea.

"I know you are hoping to take your wife there with you, and I think I certainly, and I think the committee is entirely supportive," Kerry said. "I think it would be a terrific message and a strong boost of morale for the Embassy, and obviously wherever possible we should try to encourage that. So I hope that will be facilitated."

Said Eikenberry, "Mr. Chairman, thank you very much for that support."

There was no immediate reaction from the State Department.
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question: what would collide with State Department rules?, answer: family members are not allowed. | question: who is waiting to be next  ambassador to Afghanistan?, answer: Lt. Gen. Karl Eikenberry | question: What happens if approved?, answer: he wants her to come with him. | question: The request may go against whose rules?, answer: State Department | question: If Karl Eikenberry becomes ambassador to Afghanistan who will go with him?, answer: his wife, Ching