Quote

We need a Commander-in-Chief, not a Campaigner-in-Chief.

I don't think I do that much to prepare for roles in general.

My job is to give the president and secretary of defense military advice before they know they need it.

You know, one thing I've learned over 40 years is that when you have jobs in Washington, you do it day by day and that's what I'm doing as secretary of defense.

I thought they know that I was the Commander in Chief, not that I know that I am the Commander in Chief, and they should behave; know how to behave to the Commander in Chief.

There is a lot to managing, and with almost four years under my belt, I believe I'm ready.

You know, the commander-in-chief's first responsibility is look out for those in uniform who fight the wars.

I've been a soldier too long to refuse to entertain any request from a potential commander in chief.

I don't really prepare for roles. I just kind of do them!

I am the commander in chief of the United States armed forces, and Iraq is gonna have to ultimately provide for its own security.