Robert Gates actually said...
we must reject the traditional approach of applying across-the-board cuts, the simplest and most politically expedient approach both inside this building and outside of it. . . . It results in a hollowing-out of the force from a lack of proper training, maintenance, and equipment. We've been there before, in the 1970s and in the 1990s.
Context
Gates warns against across-the-board budget cuts that weaken military readiness.
02/14/2011