Gates tells DOD he'll listen to new ideas

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21 (UPI) -- Defense Secretary Robert Gates has wasted no time in telling the U.S. armed forces that he is prepared to listen to their opinions.

"It is an honor, and a humbling responsibility, to take the helm of this department in a time of war and to lead men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country," Gates said in a message to all U.S. service men and women and employees of the U.S. Department of Defense Tuesday, the day after he took over from controversial Donald Rumsfeld.

Rumsfeld, one of the longest serving defense secretaries in U.S. history, was notorious during his time in office for riding roughshod over the professional opinions of senior serving officers who disagreed with him.

However, Gates took pains in his very first statement to the forces he leads to send a very different message about the way he intends to operate.

"In the coming weeks, I will visit some of the key military posts and commands at home and abroad, as well as consult with this department's senior civilian and military leaders and staff," the new defense secretary said. "I look forward to meeting and hearing from the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who are the true heart and strength of America's armed forces. As the president has asked for my unvarnished advice, I expect the same of you."

"Over the years of leading big institutions, I have learned something important: Leaders come and go, but professionals endure long after the appointees are gone. The key to successful leadership, in my view, is to involve in the decision-making process, early and often, those who ultimately must carry out the decisions.