In the course of his duties, Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates travels throughout the world visiting U.S. military forces in deployed locations and meeting with defense counterparts in allied and partner nations. Here's a look at Secretary Gates' latest travels.

Services Must Balance Old,
New Capabilities, Gates Says

MOSUL, Iraq, April 8, 2011 – As they move ahead, the services must find the right balance between the new capabilities they’ve had to develop in Iraq and Afghanistan while maintaining the traditional capabilities they used in previous wars, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said. Story

Situations Similar to Libya Unlikely

MOSUL, Iraq, April 8, 2011 – It’s unlikely that a situation like the one in Libya would occur in another country, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told U.S. soldiers during his visit to Iraq. Story

Gates Visits UAE for Talks

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, April 8, 2011 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates concluded a three-day visit to Iraq with two stops in the north today before flying to meet with Crown Prince Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nubayan. Story

Shutdown Could Affect Young
Troops Most, Gates Says

BAGHDAD, April 7, 2011 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told U.S. service members in Baghdad that he hopes a government shutdown doesn’t happen April 8, because "it’ll be an inconvenience for a lot of troops.” Story

Gates Thanks Soldiers for Success

BAGHDAD, April 7, 2011 – Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told U.S. soldiers in Baghdad that they and their predecessors have been part of an “extraordinary success story.” Story