Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

Friday, May 10, 2013  Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates says there are smart ways to reduce the size of the nation's defense budget.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011  Obama to move US closer to leaving Afghanistan, will announce drawdown plans Wednesday

Thursday, April 28, 2011  Obama was to announce Thursday that CIA Director Leon Panetta will replace Defense Secretary Robert Gates when Gates makes his long-planned exit this summer.

Friday, April 22, 2011  Sen. John McCain says rebels fighting Gadhafi troops are his heroes during visit to east Libya

Monday, March 28, 2011  Libya's rebel forces closed in Monday on Moammar Gadhafi's hometown of Sirte.

Thursday, March 24, 2011  Except for Qatar, Arab nations that called for action against Gadhafi are missing in action

Tuesday, March 22, 2011  Rate of coalition attacks on Libya is slowing; officials say US role to lessen in coming days

Monday, March 21, 2011  Pentagon: Pro-Gadhafi forces scattered after air assault; US moving to relinquish command

Tuesday, November 09, 2010  Gates urges Iraq to make political bargain, says US open to idea of keeping troops there

Monday, August 16, 2010  A Republican and holdover from the Bush administration, Gates had agreed to stay on at the request of President Barack Obama. The move was intended to maintain stability at a time of two wars.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010  The Senate Armed Services Committee has enough votes to approve a bill overturning the ban on gays serving openly in the military, according to supporters of the effort to end the 17-year-old "don't ask, don't tell" policy.

Monday, May 03, 2010  Defense Secretary Robert Gates said the military must rethink whether it can afford such a massive naval fleet at a time when the Army and Marine Corps need more money to take care of troops and their families.

Monday, March 08, 2010  Gates visits Afghanistan where preparations are under way for next step in war offensive

Tuesday, February 09, 2010  Pentagon says defense secretary wants to see Iran sanctions in 'weeks, not months'

Tuesday, February 02, 2010  Civilian and military officials expected to lead study into 'don't ask, don't tell' policy