Robert M. Gates
Robert M. Gates
================
Full Name and Common Aliases
---------------------------------
Robert Michael Gates was born on September 30, 1943. He is commonly known by his full name.
Birth and Death Dates
-------------------------
Born: September 30, 1943
Died: Not Applicable (still alive)
Nationality and Profession(s)
-------------------------------
Gates is an American retired government official who has served in various roles throughout his career. He was the 22nd United States Secretary of Defense from 2006 to 2011.
Early Life and Background
---------------------------
Robert Gates grew up in Wichita, Kansas. His father, Thomas Kenneth Gates Sr., worked as a oil executive. Gates attended Wichita East High School, where he was an active member of the school's debate team. He then went on to study at Colby College before transferring to University of Texas at Austin, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1965.
Major Accomplishments
-------------------------
Gates' career in government began when he was recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1966. He worked as an analyst and later became involved in clandestine operations. In the early 1970s, Gates served as a White House staff assistant to President Richard Nixon and then as deputy director of the CIA from 1986 to 1991.
From 2006 until his resignation in 2011, Gates held the position of United States Secretary of Defense under both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. During this time, he played a significant role in shaping US foreign policy, particularly with regards to Iraq and Afghanistan.
Notable Works or Actions
---------------------------
Gates has written several books on his experiences in government. These include "Duty: Memoirs of a Secretary at War" (2014) and "From the Shadows: The Ultimate Insider's Story of Five Presidents and the Secret Government" (1996).
Impact and Legacy
----------------------
As both a CIA officer and US Defense Secretary, Gates' work has left an indelible mark on American foreign policy. His tenure at the Pentagon was marked by his efforts to reform the military and improve its effectiveness in combating terrorism.
Gates is also known for his criticisms of the Iraq War, which he expressed publicly during his time as Secretary of Defense. This stance put him at odds with some members of the Bush administration but demonstrated his commitment to speaking truth to power when necessary.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
------------------------------------------
Robert Gates' extensive experience in government and his willingness to challenge the status quo have made him a respected figure in both the US military and intelligence communities. His quotes on leadership, war, and governance offer valuable insights into the complexities of modern geopolitics.
As a seasoned statesman who has worked under multiple administrations, Gates provides a unique perspective on the challenges facing the United States today. His legacy as a leader who prioritized the safety of American troops while also advocating for reform within the military continues to inspire new generations of policymakers and public servants.
Quotes by Robert M. Gates
Robert M. Gates's insights on:
One of my favorite little sayings is, 'To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.'
If Iraq and Afghanistan have taught us anything in recent history, it is the unpredictability of war and that these things are easier to get into than to get out of, and, frankly, the facile way in which too many people talk about, 'Well, let's just go attack them.'
I remember sitting at the witness table listening to this litany of woe and thinking, What the hell am I doing here? I have walked right into the middle of a category-five shitstorm.
When it comes to predicting future conflicts, what kind of fights they will be, and what will be needed, we need a lot more humility.
Your countrymen owe you their freedom and their security. They sleep safely at night and pursue their dreams during the day because you stand the watch and protect them... You are the best America has to offer. My admiration and affection for yo is with limit, and I will think about you and your families and pray for you every day for the rest of my life. God Bless you.
I always thought Obama was “presidential.” He treated the office of the presidency with respect. I rarely saw him in the Oval Office with a coat and tie, and he always conducted himself with dignity. He was a man of personal integrity, and in his personal behavior – at least to the extent I could observe it – he was an excellent role model... I thought Obama was first-rate in both intellect and temperament.” Page 300.