Frank Lautenberg: “today is Chuck Hagel's first day as our Secretary of Defense. This is a great development for our Armed Forces and the…”

“today is Chuck Hagel's first day as our Secretary of Defense. This is a great development for our Armed Forces and the Nation they protect. I was proud to support Chuck Hagel's nomination to become the Secretary of Defense, and I was proud to see his nomination confirmed with bipartisan support yesterday. Throughout his life, Chuck has displayed courage, wisdom, and leadership. And he has always served this Nation with dedication and resolve. I am confident he will be a strong and able leader of the men and women in our military, and I am confident he will do everything possible to keep our country safe. I congratulate Secretary Hagel on his successful and well-deserved confirmation and wish him the best as he begins his leadership of our Department of Defense. I yield the floor. ____________________”