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

Friday, May 10, 2013  Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates addressed graduates of the University of South Carolina Friday.

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, April 02, 2013  Former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and singer Darius Rucker are among those scheduled to speak at upcoming commencement ceremonies at the University of South Carolina.

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

Friday, May 13, 2011  Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Commanding General Maj. Gen. James Milano meet with soldiers on Fort Jackson Thursday.

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 23, 2010  President Barack Obama met into the evening with his top national security advisers to discuss next steps, and emphasized his unshakable support for South Korea, the White House said.

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

Friday, September 03, 2010  Defense Secretary Robert Gates says he saw and heard evidence the U.S. counterinsurgency strategy is taking hold in critical Kandahar province.

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.