Accountability is always the most important tool for leader evaluation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I will hold all commanders responsible for this issue.

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

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

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

Promoting and protecting the security of Afghan women and girls has been a priority of both the Defense and State Departments in Afghanistan.

I agree that our military forces need to remain flexible, agile, and balanced in order to be ready for challenges around the world.

Not all problems are best met with military tools.

Sequestration will reduce the operations and maintenance (O&M) funding that is used to train our troops, to run our bases, and to run many of our family support programs.