Secretary Issues Message as Potential Shutdown Looms
DOD file photo
The Defense Department has been moving forward with necessary and producent preparations in the event of a possible government shutdown, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said in a message to the workforce, Sept. 30, 2013. He said furlough decisions are dictated solely by the law and "are in no way a reflection of the importance of your work."
Hagel Praises 60-year-old U.S.-South Korean Alliance
DOD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo
The U.S.-South Korean alliance that began 60 years ago was based on mutual defense, but has grown into a force for global peace and stability, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said during a banquet celebrating the 60th anniversary of the U.S.-South Korean alliance in Seoul, South Korea, Sept. 30, 2013.
Carter: Shutdown Would Be ‘Disruptive, Stupid’
DOD photo by Glenn Gawcett
Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter remarked that the looming government shutdown can be avoided and should be avoided during a speech in Washington, D.C., Sept. 30, 2013. Carter added that a shutdown “will be extremely disruptive and unfortunate, especially for the men and women who are defending this country who now have to worry about receiving their paychecks on time.”
U.S., South Korean Military Leaders Hold Talks in Seoul
DOD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Daniel Hinton
U.S. Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, met with U.S. and South Korean military leaders to discuss interoperability, capabilities and the threat from North Korea during the 38th Military Committee Meeting in Seoul, South Korea, Sept. 30, 2013.
DOD Spells Out Closure Contingency Plan Guidance
DOD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo
In the event appropriations lapse Oct. 1 and the government shuts down, about half of DOD’s civilian workforce would be furloughed Robert F. Hale, the Defense Department's comptroller and chief financial officer, said during a briefing at the Pentagon, Sept. 27, 2013. Military personnel would report to work as normal, activities labeled as excepted and protected from stoppage would continue, while non-excepted activities would cease.
Hagel Meets With Committee On Women in the Services
DOD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo
Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel met with members of the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services at the Pentagon, Sept. 27, 2013. The committee is comprised of civilian women and men, appointed by the secretary of defense, to provide advice and recommendations on matters and policies relating to the recruitment and retention, treatment, employment, integration and well-being of women in the armed forces.
Proclamation Honors Reserve Component Employers
DOD file photo
President Barack Obama commended American businesses in proclaiming Sept. 22-28 National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week. “This week, we pay tribute to these selfless men and women who wear the uniform, to their families, and to their dedicated employers, whose enduring commitment keeps our military strong and our nation secure,” Obama said.
Coalition Forces, Afghan Soldiers Patrol in Barrmo
U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Demetrius L. Munnerlyn
U.S. Marine Corps 1st Lt. Michael Smith interacted with an Afghan boy in Barrmo in the Washir district of Afghanistan, Sept. 19, 2013. Smith is assigned to the 33rd Georgian Liaison Team.