Secretary Gates helps wield the sword at a ceremonial cake-cutting. Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates helps wield the sword at the ceremonial cake-cutting in the Pentagon to mark the 235th birthday of the United States Army on June 14, 2010. Gates is assisted by Army Chief of Staff Gen. George Casey (2nd from left), Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh and Sergeant Major of the Army Kenneth O. Preston (2nd from right). As tradition dictates, the oldest soldier serving in the Military District of Washington Col. Wittich (left) and the youngest Pvt. Noland (right) joined the dignitaries for the celebration. SHARE IMAGE: Download Image: Full Size (0.08 MB) Photo By: VIRIN: 284718-U-JBK78-671.jpg Photo Gallery