President-Elect Obama Announces New Security Team

On December 1, 2008, at the Hilton Chicago, President-Elect Barack Obama announced the members of his national security team.

• Senator Hillary Clinton accepted a nomination to be secretary of State.
• Defense Secretary Gates accepted an invitation to continue in his role.
• Eric Holder accepted the nomination to be attorney general.
• Governor Janet Napolitano accepted the nomination to be secretary of Homeland Security.
• Susan Rice accepted the nomination to be the ambassador to the United Nations.
• Retired Marine General John Jones accepted the nomination to be national security adviser.

"We move forward with the humility that comes with knowing that there are brave men and women protecting us on the front lines. Troops serving their second, third, or fourth tours. Diplomats and intelligence officers in dangerous corners of the world. FBI agents in the field, cops on the beat, prosecutors in our courts, and cargo inspectors at our ports. These selfless Americans whose names are unknown to most of us will form the backbone of our effort. If we serve as well as they do, we will protect our country and promote our values," said President-elect Obama.

The Department of Defense released the following statement by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates:

"I am deeply honored that the President-Elect has asked me to continue as Secretary of Defense.

"Mindful that we are engaged in two wars and face other serious challenges at home and around the world, and with a profound sense of personal responsibility to and for our men and women in uniform and their families, I must do my duty - as they do theirs. How could I do otherwise?

"Serving in this position for nearly two years - and especially the opportunity to lead our brave and dedicated Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Defense Civilians - has been the most gratifying experience of my life. I am honored to continue to serve them and our country, and I will be honored to serve President-Elect Obama."

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