Panetta Details Steps Needed to End al-Qaida Threat

[unhappycamper]

http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=118606

Panetta Details Steps Needed to End al-Qaida Threat
By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2012 – For the United States and its allies, ending the al-Qaida threat calls for a modified military footprint, close work with partners and continued U.S. involvement in regions of the world where violent extremism has flourished, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said tonight.

Addressing a large audience here at the Center for a New American Security, the secretary discussed significant national security challenges and opportunities ahead.

He also outlined priorities that characterize the approaching end of the longest period of sustained armed conflict in the nation’s history.

The priorities, Panetta said, are fighting the war against al-Qaida and its affiliates, ending the war in Afghanistan, implementing the new defense strategy, meeting fiscal responsibilities, countering nuclear proliferation, improving cybersecurity, achieving greater energy security, implementing the Asia-Pacific rebalance, and taking care of service members, veterans and military families.



unhappycamper comment: It's nice that Panetta put "and taking care of service members, veterans and military families" in his nine point list of stuff to do. Number nine is better than not mentioning the need to take care of veterans and their families .