Dan Coats: “Dr. William Perry will, undoubtedly, bring a fine mind and extensive knowledge of the Pentagon and our Nation's military…”

“Dr. William Perry will, undoubtedly, bring a fine mind and extensive knowledge of the Pentagon and our Nation's military establishment to the job of Secretary of Defense. During his 10 months as Deputy Secretary, he has done an admirable job in running the day-to-day operation of the Pentagon, and his abilities in the areas of research, analysis, and defense procurement are well known. I will support his nomination as Secretary of Defense, and I certainly wish him success in his new role. Today's post-cold-war world, however, will require more than technical and administrative excellence. Dr. Perry's considerable abilities will be significantly challenged. While many believe that domestic agendas and budget shortfalls should now be America's top priorities, the fact remains that the world today is probably less stable than it has been at any other time in the last 45 years. The pressure to divert already scarce defense dollars to pay for what might seem like more immediate domestic concerns will be great. The temptation to defer to louder or stronger voices may at times be overwhelming. But America's military establishment needs decisive leadership; our military men and women need a strong advocate; and the Nation needs a strategic thinker with America's national security interests at heart. I truly hope that Dr. Perry is that person to address those important concerns.”