GATES ARRIVES IN IRAQ U.S. Marine Maj. Gen. Walter E. Gaskin greets Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates upon his arrival at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 3, 2007. Gaskin is the commander of the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines. Gates made a surprise visit to Iraq to meet with President Bush, and top military and Iraqi leaders. SHARE: Download: Full Size (0.03 MB) Credit: VIRIN: 122908-Z-MXT77-844.jpg Photo Gallery