Statement from Secretary Hagel on President Obama’s Speech
May 23, 2013

The President today presented a comprehensive vision for how we will continue to protect the nation from terrorism, especially from al Qaeda and its affiliates, while remaining true to our values and laws. I have directed the Department of Defense to work closely with our interagency partners and allies to implement the President’s guidance, including the efforts to close the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay. Having been closely involved in these issues as a U.S. Senator, the co-chairman of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, and now as secretary of defense, I applaud President Obama’s strong leadership in defending the United States of America and advancing our interests around the world.