PRESS CORPS FAREWELL - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates responds to a reporter's question during a press conference at the Pentagon, June 16, 2011. Gates announced this would be his last time addressing the Pentagon Press Corps, and thanked them for their hard work. DOD photo by Cherie Cullen My Comment: A Kansas native, Robert Gates has served this country since 1966 .... 4 1/2 years as Secretary of Defense. His departure will be missed, and I have a 'gut feeling' that his successor (Leon Panetta) will not meet the standards and accomplishments that are now credited to Robert Gates. I have been both critical of some his decisions and positions (cancelling the F-22 program), and supportive of others (not to get involved in Libya). I wish him the best and success in future endeavors.
