National Security Rests on Civilian Shoulders
Few have had the opportunity to lead our country’s uniformed services. We are proud to have done so, and humbled by the countless sacrifices of our men and women in uniform. Their efforts have placed our security on a solid foundation.
In today’s increasingly complex security environment though, the civilian tools of development and diplomacy are equally vital to our national security. The tough transnational challenges that burden many countries of the world—and, in turn, the United States—will not be met by force alone.
Collaboration between development, diplomacy, and defense is essential for rooting out terrorism, extending legitimate governments in failing states, and reinforcing the values that America shares with the world. Recent successes include rescue and relief efforts to restore stability in Haiti following the devastating earthquake, cooperative responses to the H1N1 flu, and diplomatic initiatives to better control nuclear materials. Now, more than ever, our military depends on having strong civilian components of national power.
