The following statement is from Admiral James Loy, Ret. (USCG), co-chair of the National Security Advisory Council for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, regarding Saturday night’s Republican Presidential Debate:

“In tonight’s debate, some of the candidates raised questions about foreign aid. The issue isn’t starting at zero, but where you end. Our military leaders, like General David Petraeus have been loud and clear — America needs foreign assistance and diplomacy, alongside defense to keep us safe.  When used strategically, foreign assistance advances our national security, and retreat in today’s world is not an option.”

Admiral Loy was Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security from 2003 to 2005, Commandant of the Coast Guard from 1998 to 2002, and is the co-chair of the National Security Advisory Council for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition.