I strongly support Secretary Panetta's decision to lift the ban on women serving in combat roles.

I will ensure that all standards reflect legitimate requirements for combat roles.

I will work tirelessly to resolve that issue holding all commanders fully accountable.

The men and women who are serving their country face many challenges both on and off the battlefield. They should never have to fear the threat of sexual assault from a fellow soldier or superior.

I will hold all commanders responsible for this issue.

I believe that the National Guard and Reserve are a tremendous resource of talent and of surge capacity for DOD.

I am committed to ensuring every servicemember receives the training, education, and credentials he or she needs to successfully transition to the civilian workforce.

As described in the 2012 Defense Strategic Guidance, the Department is rebalancing toward the Asia-Pacific while maintaining focus on the Middle-East.

Maintaining personnel critical technical skills will be an increasingly important challenge for DOD.

The United States is firm in its commitment to Taiwan's self-defense needs under the Taiwan Relations Act.

If confirmed, I will continue to work with the State Department to monitor progress throughout the transition and provide Congress with information that is responsive to the NDAA.

If confirmed, I expect we will continue to recognize their service and achievements based on the contributions they make toward mission accomplishment.

If confirmed, I will look forward to participating in any interagency discussion of the merits of extending selective service registration to women.

Accountability is always the most important tool for leader evaluation.

I applaud... Secretary Panetta's decision to rescind the restriction on women in direct combat.

If confirmed, I plan to fully support the Department's efforts to implement the U.S. Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender-based Violence Globally and associated Executive Order.

The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) is vital to training the exceptional officers upon which our military relies, including in cyber skill sets.

In today's complex global environment, cyber threats pose an increasingly serious challenge to national security.