Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel’s experience as an enlisted soldier brought a rare and welcome perspective to his service in the Pentagon’s top position, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said today.
Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey issued a statement following today’s announcement by President Barack Obama that he had accepted Hagel’s resignation.
"The Joint Chiefs and I have been proud to serve under the leadership of Secretary Hagel,” Dempsey said. “He led the military at a particularly difficult time in our history. He set us on course for many lasting reforms. He challenged us every day to adapt and innovate to changing times.
“Secretary Hagel brought a soldier's heart to work every day,” the chairman continued. “He cared deeply for our young men and women in uniform, and they had no greater advocate. His insight into the nature of military service was both rare and welcome.”
Hagel will remain in office until the Senate confirms his successor.