Capt Brandon Charters2125681<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-122614"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a href="mailto:?subject=Check this out on RallyPoint!&body=Hi, I thought you would find this interesting:%0D%0AWhat is the first thought you have when hearing General Mattis will be our new SecDef?%0D%0A %0D%0AHere is the link: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/what-is-the-first-thought-you-have-when-hearing-general-mattis-will-be-our-new-secdef"
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<a class="fancybox" rel="dc23fda0b384548dcd15819540b58ea8" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/122/614/for_gallery_v2/f10fcff4.JPG"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/122/614/large_v3/f10fcff4.JPG" alt="F10fcff4" /></a></div></div>I might actually lose sleep over my level of excitement.What is the first thought you have when hearing General Mattis will be our new SecDef?2016-12-01T21:31:19-05:00Capt Brandon Charters2125681<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-122614"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a class="fancybox" rel="70a4e51c28868e07dd6252f373ec9acb" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/122/614/for_gallery_v2/f10fcff4.JPG"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/122/614/large_v3/f10fcff4.JPG" alt="F10fcff4" /></a></div></div>I might actually lose sleep over my level of excitement.What is the first thought you have when hearing General Mattis will be our new SecDef?2016-12-01T21:31:19-05:002016-12-01T21:31:19-05:00SFC George Smith2125693<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>this is a good choice ... good commander and great experience...Response by SFC George Smith made Dec 1 at 2016 9:35 PM2016-12-01T21:35:57-05:002016-12-01T21:35:57-05:00MSG Private RallyPoint Member2125726<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Based on what I've been able to read about him he seems like a excellent choice.Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2016 9:52 PM2016-12-01T21:52:43-05:002016-12-01T21:52:43-05:00CPT Jim Schwebach2125795<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Other than the fact that the appointment is against current law...Response by CPT Jim Schwebach made Dec 1 at 2016 10:39 PM2016-12-01T22:39:37-05:002016-12-01T22:39:37-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member2125823<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Good by political correctness. I am very hopeful for our new sec def. I can think of no one better.Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2016 10:59 PM2016-12-01T22:59:52-05:002016-12-01T22:59:52-05:00MAJ Byron Oyler2125827<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Less war, more money. Historically we have seen, the more aggressive, ready to fight Hawks we have the fewer enemies we have wanting to fight us. We have plenty of people that believe Trump is ready to get us into a war and if we have fellow citizens believing that, Putin, N. Korea believe that and will want nothing of it.Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Dec 1 at 2016 11:02 PM2016-12-01T23:02:48-05:002016-12-01T23:02:48-05:00Sgt Private RallyPoint Member2125913<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="607" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/607-capt-brandon-charters">Capt Brandon Charters</a> General Mattis will make an excellent Secretary of Defense. Great news for our country.Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 1 at 2016 11:56 PM2016-12-01T23:56:10-05:002016-12-01T23:56:10-05:00CMSgt John Momaney2126003<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Let's buckle-up gentlemen and enjoy the ride that we will be on with General Mattis. Our military is finally in good hands. God Bless our new Commander-in Chief.Response by CMSgt John Momaney made Dec 2 at 2016 1:27 AM2016-12-02T01:27:50-05:002016-12-02T01:27:50-05:00SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member2126022<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It's not official yet, he will need a waiver from congress since he retired less than 7 years ago.. But I see no reason why he won't get waived... I'm looking forward to it!Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2016 1:44 AM2016-12-02T01:44:23-05:002016-12-02T01:44:23-05:00SN Greg Wright2126046<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>As someone that finds shooting people that rape women and children 'sometimes fun' (I'm paraphrasing a quote he made in like, 2008), my first thought was, 'Please, General, repeal every fucking thing Mabus ever did in office!'Response by SN Greg Wright made Dec 2 at 2016 2:30 AM2016-12-02T02:30:24-05:002016-12-02T02:30:24-05:00MSgt Private RallyPoint Member2126104<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>General Mattis has shown throughout his career the kind of leader he is. I don't expect anything less and believe our military men and women are in good hands. Semper Fidelis!!Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2016 4:56 AM2016-12-02T04:56:57-05:002016-12-02T04:56:57-05:00Cpl Jeff N.2126135<div class="images-v2-count-1"><div class="content-picture image-v2-number-1" id="image-122636"> <div class="social_icons social-buttons-on-image">
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<a href="mailto:?subject=Check this out on RallyPoint!&body=Hi, I thought you would find this interesting:%0D%0AWhat is the first thought you have when hearing General Mattis will be our new SecDef?%0D%0A %0D%0AHere is the link: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/what-is-the-first-thought-you-have-when-hearing-general-mattis-will-be-our-new-secdef"
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<a class="fancybox" rel="05637a70e202c24910e8371e4d41d066" href="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/122/636/for_gallery_v2/4d9848a0.jpg"><img src="https://d1ndsj6b8hkqu9.cloudfront.net/pictures/images/000/122/636/large_v3/4d9848a0.jpg" alt="4d9848a0" /></a></div></div>Perhaps the warrior ethos and not the PC, what's in it for me mentality will go away. We need to win and we need people that know how to win and are willing to do the hard work of winning. Mattis is that guy. <br /><br />This was me laying my head down on the pillow last night.Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Dec 2 at 2016 5:54 AM2016-12-02T05:54:08-05:002016-12-02T05:54:08-05:00SSG Tom Pike2126328<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My first thought was, "I bet the Marine Corps gets better funding now"Response by SSG Tom Pike made Dec 2 at 2016 7:54 AM2016-12-02T07:54:27-05:002016-12-02T07:54:27-05:00CSM Richard StCyr2126463<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The guy is bad ass and smart, what more could you ask for.Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Dec 2 at 2016 8:58 AM2016-12-02T08:58:04-05:002016-12-02T08:58:04-05:00CSM Michael J. Uhlig2126468<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>my first thought, honestly was a "Macho Man" Randy Savage version of "OOH YEAH!"<br /><br /><a target="_blank" href="https://youtu.be/8Igui65gY5M">https://youtu.be/8Igui65gY5M</a> <div class="pta-link-card answers-template-image type-youtube">
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Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Dec 2 at 2016 9:00 AM2016-12-02T09:00:02-05:002016-12-02T09:00:02-05:00SSG Wally Lawver2126607<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>AWESOME !!!!!!!!!!!!!! prefect pick:)Response by SSG Wally Lawver made Dec 2 at 2016 9:56 AM2016-12-02T09:56:32-05:002016-12-02T09:56:32-05:00SPC Sheila Lewis2126609<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Too many civilians have called the shots for far too long.Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made Dec 2 at 2016 9:57 AM2016-12-02T09:57:35-05:002016-12-02T09:57:35-05:00SSG Wally Lawver2126616<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I wish I could "unretire" to be in again under this incoming set of leaders....................................Response by SSG Wally Lawver made Dec 2 at 2016 9:59 AM2016-12-02T09:59:59-05:002016-12-02T09:59:59-05:00MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P2126632<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>First thought? Oohrah and Semper Fi! Wish I could revoke my retirement and serve again under a leader that actually knows what he's doing. My hope is that he can undo some of the rot that has pervaded DoD for several years now.Response by MSgt Steven Holt, NRP, CCEMT-P made Dec 2 at 2016 10:05 AM2016-12-02T10:05:35-05:002016-12-02T10:05:35-05:00MAJ Private RallyPoint Member2126681<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I'm in the camp that this is a good choice, although I am persuaded regarding the value of ensuring these positions remain civilian in nature; a key component of our republicResponse by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2016 10:24 AM2016-12-02T10:24:13-05:002016-12-02T10:24:13-05:00GySgt Kenneth Pepper2126781<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My only thought is how much I wish I could turn back the clock and be a young buck serving with him as Secretary. He will certainly set the expectation for a return to discipline, order, and preparedness. I bet Iran cuts their stupid crap out by January 20th.Response by GySgt Kenneth Pepper made Dec 2 at 2016 10:59 AM2016-12-02T10:59:42-05:002016-12-02T10:59:42-05:00CAPT Kevin B.2126818<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Liberal left freak mode again as usual. What gets lost in this is exMIL types understand the concept of chain of command, what their authority is and IS NOT, etc. They tend to be loathe doing things because they can but do what's legal to meet the mission objective. They are not PC but clearly articulate in their assessments. They don't like their stuff being sifted for political optics. The list goes on. So if Gen Mattis approaches the job with great humility and orientation to service, he'll do fine.Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Dec 2 at 2016 11:10 AM2016-12-02T11:10:03-05:002016-12-02T11:10:03-05:00MSG Dan Castaneda2126853<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>He is a Great American that has given so much for his Country and the men he has led. I am happy for him and excited for all us. Great news.Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made Dec 2 at 2016 11:22 AM2016-12-02T11:22:34-05:002016-12-02T11:22:34-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member2126901<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>im not excited at all.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2016 11:36 AM2016-12-02T11:36:06-05:002016-12-02T11:36:06-05:00Cpl Justin Goolsby2127048<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Well I know every Marine in my newsfeed was excited. Personally I'm hoping this means we can put an end to the social experiment crap and go back to the warfighting mentality. He has a reputation and carries a lot of respect. If his appointment makes our enemies think twice about messing with us, then OOHRAH to that.Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made Dec 2 at 2016 12:13 PM2016-12-02T12:13:49-05:002016-12-02T12:13:49-05:00LTC Stephen F.2127126<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think that it is great news <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="607" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/607-capt-brandon-charters">Capt Brandon Charters</a> that President-elect Donald Trump has selected retired Marine Gen. James Mattis as his Secretary of Defense. Gen Mattis is a forceful leader who speaks his mind and will call a spade a spade if called upon to state his views on national security and strategy issues as a minimum. <br />Thanks for mentioning me <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="810011" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/810011-ssg-william-jones">SSG William Jones</a><br />Kudos to retired Marine Gen. James Mattis for all he has done and all I expect he will do as Secretary of Defense!<br />FYI <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="67210" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/67210-25a-signal-officer">LTC Stephen C.</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="347395" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/347395-351l-counterintelligence-technician">CW5 Private RallyPoint Member</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="334546" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/334546-sfc-william-farrell">SFC William Farrell</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="22186" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/22186-1w0x1-weather">SSgt Private RallyPoint Member</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="520566" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/520566-11b2p-infantryman-airborne">SGT Private RallyPoint Member</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="768589" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/768589-sp5-mark-kuzinski">SP5 Mark Kuzinski</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="673920" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/673920-sgt-forrest-stewart">SGT Forrest Stewart</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="567961" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/567961-11b-infantryman">SPC Private RallyPoint Member</a> Maj William W. "Bill" Price <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="786799" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/786799-capt-tom-brown">Capt Tom Brown</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="287024" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/287024-ssgt-robert-marx">SSgt Robert Marx</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="7792" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/7792-3e9x1-emergency-management">TSgt Joe C.</a> <a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="807443" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/807443-sgt-robert-george">SGT Robert George</a> PO2 Ed C.Response by LTC Stephen F. made Dec 2 at 2016 12:38 PM2016-12-02T12:38:14-05:002016-12-02T12:38:14-05:00PO1 Brian Austin2127205<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Outstanding choice! I am hoping he will get the 7 yr retirement waiver.Response by PO1 Brian Austin made Dec 2 at 2016 12:59 PM2016-12-02T12:59:15-05:002016-12-02T12:59:15-05:00Capt Seid Waddell2127294<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The adults are back in charge!Response by Capt Seid Waddell made Dec 2 at 2016 1:28 PM2016-12-02T13:28:31-05:002016-12-02T13:28:31-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member2127436<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Mattis? Never heard of her.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2016 2:12 PM2016-12-02T14:12:43-05:002016-12-02T14:12:43-05:00Sgt Rusty Norman2127640<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>We finally send the right message to the world that we stand behind our troops and our country.Response by Sgt Rusty Norman made Dec 2 at 2016 3:24 PM2016-12-02T15:24:00-05:002016-12-02T15:24:00-05:00COL Jean (John) F. B.2127646<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think he is a great choice... I think there will be some positive changes in DoD. Maybe some of the social experimentation, to include at the highest levels, will stopResponse by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Dec 2 at 2016 3:26 PM2016-12-02T15:26:12-05:002016-12-02T15:26:12-05:00MSG Private RallyPoint Member2127762<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>awesome, says whats on his mind and doesn't pander to the PC crowdResponse by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2016 4:25 PM2016-12-02T16:25:13-05:002016-12-02T16:25:13-05:00MSgt James Mullis2127821<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>As I've heard many times before "He's the best we have". I can't be happier.Response by MSgt James Mullis made Dec 2 at 2016 5:11 PM2016-12-02T17:11:00-05:002016-12-02T17:11:00-05:00SSG Private RallyPoint Member2127977<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>ElationResponse by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2016 6:28 PM2016-12-02T18:28:24-05:002016-12-02T18:28:24-05:00SGT Robert George2128153<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Outstanding choice !!!!Response by SGT Robert George made Dec 2 at 2016 7:56 PM2016-12-02T19:56:17-05:002016-12-02T19:56:17-05:001SG Al Brown2128298<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If you are still in uniform, you're life just improved.Response by 1SG Al Brown made Dec 2 at 2016 9:01 PM2016-12-02T21:01:51-05:002016-12-02T21:01:51-05:00Jenn Moynihan2128491<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>THIS is an assignment with which I agree! Woot!Response by Jenn Moynihan made Dec 2 at 2016 10:25 PM2016-12-02T22:25:41-05:002016-12-02T22:25:41-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member2128831<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My buddy (a "former" Marine) loves the idea, and Mr. Mattis seems a great mix of intelligent and ferocious. I hope he is a great SecDef.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 12:30 AM2016-12-03T00:30:34-05:002016-12-03T00:30:34-05:00COL Mikel J. Burroughs2129259<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="607" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/607-capt-brandon-charters">Capt Brandon Charters</a> This is what it means to Marines throughout the world - Great pick for SecDef!<br /><a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoD9QoLHN64">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoD9QoLHN64</a> <div class="pta-link-card answers-template-image type-youtube">
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<a target="blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoD9QoLHN64">Oorah!</a>
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Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Dec 3 at 2016 8:38 AM2016-12-03T08:38:21-05:002016-12-03T08:38:21-05:00Lisa C.2129801<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Awesome news!! Looking forward to hearing more from him!Response by Lisa C. made Dec 3 at 2016 11:46 AM2016-12-03T11:46:48-05:002016-12-03T11:46:48-05:00CN Tom Parmarter2130330<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>My first thought was that maybe we'd get back to winning wars instead of just going halfway.Response by CN Tom Parmarter made Dec 3 at 2016 3:44 PM2016-12-03T15:44:41-05:002016-12-03T15:44:41-05:00CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member2130850<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Great choice and about time. I'm retired but still care deeply about the Nation and especially those still serving. I think he can handle the job but will face challenges with DC politics. He's been a CINC but the DOD is a whole new ballgame. Opposition is already forming but I don't know if they'll be able to block it. Former SF Capt Jason Amerine, now a retired LTC , says then BGen Mattis's failure to launch MEDEVAC for his injured team cost lives due to the 6 hour delay. Mattis was commanding TF-58 at Camp Rhino, Afghanistan in 2001. Amerine's team was escorting Hamid Karzai to a treaty signing and they were hit by friendly fire. AFSOC birds from Pakistan responded but tragically, SF Sergeant Cody Prosser died and a couple of Afghanis. Sen. Gillibrand D-NY says she'll try to block the appointment. She's been outspoken about women's issues in military and may fear that SecDef Mattis and CJCS Dunford will reverse women in combat policy, but says her reason is the tradition of civilian control. Tell that to Gen of Army Marshall, who besides a brilliant military career became State and Defense Secretaries consecutively i.e Marshall Plan in Europe. As Commandant USMC, Gen Dunford fought the women in combat issue the longest before being overruled. The USMC based their position on internal studies and a lengthy one by Rand Corp. that said it would lower readiness and could cost lives. It wouldn't surprise me if the defense industry spread some cash around for PR to attempt to block appointment also. They may see Gen Mattis as a threat to the defense industry "gravy train". The SF MEDEVAC issue should be looked at very carefully though, because of the seriousness of the allegation, and it should be seriously considered in the appointment process. I think he's smart enough to handle the job and won't engage in half-baked incursions without clear strategy and objectives. If we do get in a scrape I believe he will make sure we win.Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 3 at 2016 9:20 PM2016-12-03T21:20:41-05:002016-12-03T21:20:41-05:00MSgt George Cater2130982<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Out f••king standing!!!!!!!!Response by MSgt George Cater made Dec 3 at 2016 10:30 PM2016-12-03T22:30:07-05:002016-12-03T22:30:07-05:00SFC Bobby Thompson2131144<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I hope we have some one that can stop the liberal agenda that the Obama administration started. 1. Including giving free transgender surgery to those service members who are confused on what sex they are. 2. No more gays serving openly in the military, I think they military can accept gays, but they should not be letting everyone know their sexual preferences. Straight people don't do that, why should they do it. 3. Stop trying to lower standards to make the military more reflective of the of the civilian world. The military holds their selves to a higher standard. 4. Don't do things just to make political statements, but get the most experienced a qualified people. It seems like all the key positions under the current administration have all been women, minorities, or gays. It just seem like every pick was not the most experienced, but just a pick to make a political statement.Response by SFC Bobby Thompson made Dec 4 at 2016 12:32 AM2016-12-04T00:32:06-05:002016-12-04T00:32:06-05:00COL Private RallyPoint Member2131243<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>my first thoughts....The job will be challenging, politically charged and much more watched by media (news and social) than those before him. When it was rumored he was being considered the news media was already painting him with a negative brush.Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2016 3:14 AM2016-12-04T03:14:22-05:002016-12-04T03:14:22-05:00PO2 David Ball2131834<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>If you believe in being P.C. your days are numbered....In the DoD or in our country...Response by PO2 David Ball made Dec 4 at 2016 12:47 PM2016-12-04T12:47:41-05:002016-12-04T12:47:41-05:00PO2 Michael D. Haines2132214<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>EXCELLENT choice, but any MARINE would be better than what we currently have as secdefResponse by PO2 Michael D. Haines made Dec 4 at 2016 3:44 PM2016-12-04T15:44:36-05:002016-12-04T15:44:36-05:00SMSgt Keith Klug2133405<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I have never worked for the man, but have done a lot of research on him and think he is a great choice. You need a person who can tell the President we are ready for any conflict. Just like the Secretary of State is there to be the other side of the coin. <br />The only think I regret is he may have to oversee a downsizing of the military personnel as the cost of planes, ships and supplies rise ("thank you military complex", said with sarcasm).Response by SMSgt Keith Klug made Dec 5 at 2016 7:28 AM2016-12-05T07:28:46-05:002016-12-05T07:28:46-05:00SFC Joseph Murphy2133923<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>A SecDef that will place the needs of the military first over politics. And hold people and companies accoutable for weapon systems development.Response by SFC Joseph Murphy made Dec 5 at 2016 11:40 AM2016-12-05T11:40:39-05:002016-12-05T11:40:39-05:00PO1 Dallas Shewmaker2137072<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Our military will get its bite back! Such a good choice! Mattis is a true Marine that doesn't back down when provoked but also knows (first-hand) the fight that's going on. I think he'll move to bring our people home and build up our military in the right areas.Response by PO1 Dallas Shewmaker made Dec 6 at 2016 12:10 PM2016-12-06T12:10:38-05:002016-12-06T12:10:38-05:00Maj Tony Lucas2143237<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I wonder if I can un-retire.Response by Maj Tony Lucas made Dec 8 at 2016 1:47 PM2016-12-08T13:47:14-05:002016-12-08T13:47:14-05:001SG Patrick Sims2193435<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>ISIS---the poor bastardsResponse by 1SG Patrick Sims made Dec 27 at 2016 7:02 PM2016-12-27T19:02:15-05:002016-12-27T19:02:15-05:00SP5 Robert Ruck2194732<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Finally, a real leader.Response by SP5 Robert Ruck made Dec 28 at 2016 9:49 AM2016-12-28T09:49:31-05:002016-12-28T09:49:31-05:00Pat McCracken2195327<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I thought he was a very good choice for Secretary of Defense.Response by Pat McCracken made Dec 28 at 2016 12:20 PM2016-12-28T12:20:23-05:002016-12-28T12:20:23-05:00CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member2199685<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>General Mattis is an excellent choice for the SecDef. Why? Well when you speak about what you were trained to do all your adult life and proved it many times over by doing it, I think that his judgment is sound and he has served honorably as the CIC,CentCom, and other highly professional position of authority. Look, the General is a hard, fair, and just Marine. I wouldn't want to have it any other way. I know, I served with him in the Gulf War during 1990-1991.<br />SF, General James Mattis.Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2016 7:34 PM2016-12-29T19:34:24-05:002016-12-29T19:34:24-05:00SSG Ken Gilder2202047<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The man has a reputation as a "Marine's Marine;" and of taking care of his troops.<br /><br />I hope that extends to retirees, as well as the active forces, and that he will use his position to bring about changes in SOFA's with Germany and Great Britain, which currently preclude visiting or transient Space-A retirees, from shopping at the exchanges and commissaries in those countries.<br /><br />Because of his reputation, I am encouraged. But bureaucracies are cumbersome, and changes take time. Therefore, I'm not holding my breath.Response by SSG Ken Gilder made Dec 30 at 2016 1:40 PM2016-12-30T13:40:12-05:002016-12-30T13:40:12-05:00TSgt Alejandro Cuervo2203176<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Having true Leadership at the helm of our defense department, key to a successful tour for our newly elected President Trump.Response by TSgt Alejandro Cuervo made Dec 30 at 2016 9:20 PM2016-12-30T21:20:16-05:002016-12-30T21:20:16-05:00CPT Ronald Scherick2204339<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>LONG overdue it is about time we had a true warrior leading the warriors . I think the war on terror will take a turn for the better . IF President Trump will follow the Generals advice on rules of engagement maybe we will win this war and suffer far fewer casualties. If we start treating these terrorist as what they are wartime combatants and not civil criminals who are afforded all the rights of an American citizen.Response by CPT Ronald Scherick made Dec 31 at 2016 10:55 AM2016-12-31T10:55:22-05:002016-12-31T10:55:22-05:00Iona Kranz2204602<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I was elated!!! Yelled "YuhYayYuhhh!!!"Response by Iona Kranz made Dec 31 at 2016 12:28 PM2016-12-31T12:28:34-05:002016-12-31T12:28:34-05:00GySgt Melissa Gravila2204639<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>HALLELUJAH PRAISE THE LORD AND PASS THE PEANUT BUTTER!! Just one more reason I know I made the right decision voting for Trump! (Now if Gen Mattis runs next term we can say we want some Maddog 2020, right?)Response by GySgt Melissa Gravila made Dec 31 at 2016 12:43 PM2016-12-31T12:43:29-05:002016-12-31T12:43:29-05:00FN George Woodruff2234243<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Thank God!Response by FN George Woodruff made Jan 10 at 2017 7:25 AM2017-01-10T07:25:19-05:002017-01-10T07:25:19-05:00SSgt Boyd Herrst2235438<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think it's absofrickenlutely outstanding! Get rid of some deadwood, put people back in field or back down to base level in a job They'll be too busy to get/be complacent.Response by SSgt Boyd Herrst made Jan 10 at 2017 1:30 PM2017-01-10T13:30:16-05:002017-01-10T13:30:16-05:00Private RallyPoint Member2236303<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Since General Patton was Murdered, we must settle for General Mattis ! :)Response by Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 10 at 2017 5:55 PM2017-01-10T17:55:42-05:002017-01-10T17:55:42-05:00PO1 Vince Shavico2241522<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Actually I was hoping he would be president. But the level of excitement and elation I fell is unheard of. My wife thought I was cray.Response by PO1 Vince Shavico made Jan 12 at 2017 10:30 AM2017-01-12T10:30:31-05:002017-01-12T10:30:31-05:00CAPT Charles Weishar2248844<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Finally expect to see major upheavals in the Department where strong leadership is sorely needed. Seriously over-staffed commands need attention while services need rational buildup of forces and equipment.Response by CAPT Charles Weishar made Jan 14 at 2017 5:17 PM2017-01-14T17:17:32-05:002017-01-14T17:17:32-05:00PO2 Gerry Tandberg2259149<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I recall reading an article back on Jan 2013 that President Barack Obama had fired General Mattis, the head of Central Command, without even calling the general to let him know he was being replaced. I have since learned much more about General Mattis; including comments from those who he served with, his service record, etc., and determined that he is very likely an excellent candidate to be our next Secretary of Defense. He holds a BS degree in History, is considered an intellectual by senior command, and is highly respected as a Marine by the lower ranks, including SNCO and enlisted personnel.<br /><br />Update: Jan 26. Now that General Mattis has been confirmed as SecDef, I'm elated. Actually, I'm pretty stoked over all President Trumps appointments.Response by PO2 Gerry Tandberg made Jan 18 at 2017 9:30 AM2017-01-18T09:30:41-05:002017-01-18T09:30:41-05:00SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member2259311<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>"Thank God! May he do better than his predecessors.... "Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 18 at 2017 10:19 AM2017-01-18T10:19:05-05:002017-01-18T10:19:05-05:00PO3 Terry Miller2259355<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I am very happy at the thought of having a true military person at the helm.Response by PO3 Terry Miller made Jan 18 at 2017 10:29 AM2017-01-18T10:29:35-05:002017-01-18T10:29:35-05:00SPC Jamie Smith2259460<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>There's going to be a YUGE difference between Obama-Bin-Lyin & Trump & the way they handle the Jihadists. I believe Trump will listen to his generals, as Obama-Bin-Lyin' never did. Obama-Bin-Lyin'actually created ISIS by his so called "strategy". Trump/Mattis will handle the situation much differently. Thank God the nightmare of the last eight years is finally over!!Response by SPC Jamie Smith made Jan 18 at 2017 10:53 AM2017-01-18T10:53:00-05:002017-01-18T10:53:00-05:00SPC Jamie Smith2259484<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It should not set any precedent at all. It just defines Obama-Bin-Lyin's terrible policies of the last eight years. I believe the deserter/traitor Bergdahl will also be released by this liberal idiot!Response by SPC Jamie Smith made Jan 18 at 2017 10:58 AM2017-01-18T10:58:09-05:002017-01-18T10:58:09-05:00MSgt Thelbert (Whitey) Roark2259565<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It's about time! I'm still smiling.Response by MSgt Thelbert (Whitey) Roark made Jan 18 at 2017 11:17 AM2017-01-18T11:17:42-05:002017-01-18T11:17:42-05:00CPO Bill Penrod2259683<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It's called legacy building er ah never mind........Response by CPO Bill Penrod made Jan 18 at 2017 11:49 AM2017-01-18T11:49:43-05:002017-01-18T11:49:43-05:00SGT James Colwell2259703<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div><a class="dark-link bold-link" role="profile-hover" data-qtip-container="body" data-id="607" data-source-page-controller="question_response_contents" href="/profiles/607-capt-brandon-charters">Capt Brandon Charters</a> About time we had a SECDEF who understands the mission and is not a politician. At least I hope he isn't.Response by SGT James Colwell made Jan 18 at 2017 11:56 AM2017-01-18T11:56:20-05:002017-01-18T11:56:20-05:00PO1 Scott Cottrell2260110<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Someone who will work hard for our men and women in uniform. And not take any shit.Response by PO1 Scott Cottrell made Jan 18 at 2017 2:04 PM2017-01-18T14:04:18-05:002017-01-18T14:04:18-05:00Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth2260206<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Out flipping standing!!! A no nonsense man who has military experience and understands what it takes to effectively prepare our nation for defense and how to properly respect and take care of the men and women serving.<br /><br /> I love his quotes but two of my favorites are 1.) “Engage your brain before you engage your weapon.” and 2.) "I come in peace. I didn’t bring artillery. But I’m pleading with you, with tears in my eyes: If you &%$@ with me, I’ll kill you all."...following the Iraq invasion to their leadership.Response by Lt Col Scott Shuttleworth made Jan 18 at 2017 2:38 PM2017-01-18T14:38:57-05:002017-01-18T14:38:57-05:00SFC Thomas Holcomb2260558<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>About freaking time!!!!!<br />My wife thought the Carolina Panthers won a game I was acting so nuts......Response by SFC Thomas Holcomb made Jan 18 at 2017 4:33 PM2017-01-18T16:33:07-05:002017-01-18T16:33:07-05:00Maj Ken Brown2260999<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>On par with Al Gray.Response by Maj Ken Brown made Jan 18 at 2017 7:26 PM2017-01-18T19:26:47-05:002017-01-18T19:26:47-05:00LCpl Bradley Otto2261161<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Finally, going to get some sh÷t done!Response by LCpl Bradley Otto made Jan 18 at 2017 8:35 PM2017-01-18T20:35:12-05:002017-01-18T20:35:12-05:00Cpl George Goodwin2261245<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>We will start getting serious about our military again. Todays military is incredible but our leadership was hobbled.Response by Cpl George Goodwin made Jan 18 at 2017 9:07 PM2017-01-18T21:07:40-05:002017-01-18T21:07:40-05:00SFC Charles Temm2263550<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Hate to use the word after it's horrible usage the last 8 years but I feel a faint stirring of hopeResponse by SFC Charles Temm made Jan 19 at 2017 2:22 PM2017-01-19T14:22:17-05:002017-01-19T14:22:17-05:00PFC Luke McClimon2277635<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Be afraid, be very afraid. A rope walks into a bar says can I have a drink, the bartender says we don't serve ropes, GET LOST! The rope walks into the street jumps in a puddle and tussle his top, walks back into the bar and asks for a drink, the bartender says, aren't you that same rope, the rope says no , I'm a frayed notResponse by PFC Luke McClimon made Jan 24 at 2017 9:55 AM2017-01-24T09:55:11-05:002017-01-24T09:55:11-05:00SP5 Richard Hammer2278513<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Right on !!Response by SP5 Richard Hammer made Jan 24 at 2017 2:04 PM2017-01-24T14:04:08-05:002017-01-24T14:04:08-05:00SFC Private RallyPoint Member2282678<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think he may be a decent SECDEF, but my first thought is that sorry SOB abandoned wounded soldiers on the battlefield (Special Forces ODA 574, 5 December 2001) and should not even be considered. They may or may not have lived anyway but the fact is he would not release his helicopters to help despite being less than 45 minutes away. SOF helicopters had to come in from Pakistan and it took them several hours. <br /> He finally released them SIX HOURS after the call for help with a mass casualty situation, which was well after the SOF birds had arrived on station from Pakistan. I lost 3 friends that day. I don't give a crap what nickname he has. He is a POS.Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2017 7:17 PM2017-01-25T19:17:31-05:002017-01-25T19:17:31-05:00FN George Woodruff2284839<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Thank God!Response by FN George Woodruff made Jan 26 at 2017 12:00 PM2017-01-26T12:00:34-05:002017-01-26T12:00:34-05:00SPC Douglas Bolton2286045<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Things will be achangin. There will be more troops, better equipment, more fear from our enemies, and no nonsense approach to everything!Response by SPC Douglas Bolton made Jan 26 at 2017 5:49 PM2017-01-26T17:49:21-05:002017-01-26T17:49:21-05:00SGT Philip Roncari2286660<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I think now the bad guys are going to need a lot of their own Secretaries of defense,,they are going to need them!Response by SGT Philip Roncari made Jan 26 at 2017 9:33 PM2017-01-26T21:33:13-05:002017-01-26T21:33:13-05:00MSG Don Burt2293958<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>With Gen. Mattis in charge, I stuck out my chest and then thanked God<br />that we have someone who won’t be bowing down and apologizing for <br />being part of the greatest country in the world and who isn’t afraid of<br />being a Leader!Response by MSG Don Burt made Jan 29 at 2017 2:41 PM2017-01-29T14:41:04-05:002017-01-29T14:41:04-05:00Jerry O'Neal2310103<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Greatest pick!Response by Jerry O'Neal made Feb 3 at 2017 3:25 PM2017-02-03T15:25:54-05:002017-02-03T15:25:54-05:00PO1 John Watson2322074<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It's about time we have a pro-military leader with the experience to strengthen our military that has been weakened down to a serious level. I point to the recent grounding of Navy aircraft due to a shortage of funds to properly repair them.Response by PO1 John Watson made Feb 8 at 2017 7:46 AM2017-02-08T07:46:02-05:002017-02-08T07:46:02-05:00PO1 David Thomas2322610<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Just having him appointed to the job is a instant morale booster. I think it is important to find one that the military can respect, and I can say there are few more deserving of it than Secretary Mattis. Great choice President Trump!Response by PO1 David Thomas made Feb 8 at 2017 10:37 AM2017-02-08T10:37:25-05:002017-02-08T10:37:25-05:00MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan2322637<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>It's about time that someone who is familiar with the business of defending this country is in this position....LOOOONNNNGGGGG overdue!!Response by MSgt James "Buck" Buchanan made Feb 8 at 2017 10:43 AM2017-02-08T10:43:55-05:002017-02-08T10:43:55-05:00MSgt J D McKee2324863<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I came a little bit in my pants. And, our new attorney general is Jefferson Beauregard Sessions. Blew it.Response by MSgt J D McKee made Feb 8 at 2017 11:04 PM2017-02-08T23:04:32-05:002017-02-08T23:04:32-05:00MSgt J D McKee2324916<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Someone named Mad Dog Mattis BY HIS TROOPS is our Sec Def. Fuck, I never thought I'd see this. I have surely died and gone to heaven. I wasn't a Marine, but I respect the Marines deeply. AND, the DOJ has someone who may actually enforce the law. And, Jeh(?) is outta the Dept of Homeland Security. Trump said, Putin is a killer, we have plenty of killers of our own, I say many of them are on this website. Rock on killerz. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt. WTF is wrong with killers anyway? I detect discrimination against killers. We should sue them. Ok, I'm a little drunk right now.Response by MSgt J D McKee made Feb 8 at 2017 11:32 PM2017-02-08T23:32:09-05:002017-02-08T23:32:09-05:00SMSgt Timothy Cathers2327106<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Whoo hoo!Response by SMSgt Timothy Cathers made Feb 9 at 2017 5:06 PM2017-02-09T17:06:02-05:002017-02-09T17:06:02-05:00CPT Karen Nichols McAbee2339776<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Literally jumping for joy!!! Finally some one who understands what it takes to defend this country!Response by CPT Karen Nichols McAbee made Feb 14 at 2017 11:04 AM2017-02-14T11:04:29-05:002017-02-14T11:04:29-05:00SFC David Pope, MBA2340522<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Amen!!!Response by SFC David Pope, MBA made Feb 14 at 2017 3:11 PM2017-02-14T15:11:45-05:002017-02-14T15:11:45-05:00SMSgt Roger Horton2340562<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>The Department of defense can now move forward and our enemies will learn to step back.Response by SMSgt Roger Horton made Feb 14 at 2017 3:18 PM2017-02-14T15:18:54-05:002017-02-14T15:18:54-05:00Sgt Mike Sarris2341233<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>Finally someone the enemy knows isn't playing political games!Response by Sgt Mike Sarris made Feb 14 at 2017 6:49 PM2017-02-14T18:49:42-05:002017-02-14T18:49:42-05:00LTC Paul Labrador2366348<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>That we had a warrior back in charge.Response by LTC Paul Labrador made Feb 23 at 2017 2:22 PM2017-02-23T14:22:16-05:002017-02-23T14:22:16-05:00MAJ Gary Jozens2384902<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I can't tell if you're being sarcastic because you doubt his ability to affect positive changes as SECDEF or because you really are loosing some sleep because you're looking forward to having him as the new SECDEF. Could you explain further just for my better understanding?Response by MAJ Gary Jozens made Mar 2 at 2017 4:36 AM2017-03-02T04:36:22-05:002017-03-02T04:36:22-05:00SSG Vance Conyers2737119<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>First thought: Sounds about right.Response by SSG Vance Conyers made Jul 16 at 2017 6:56 PM2017-07-16T18:56:13-04:002017-07-16T18:56:13-04:00LtCol J W2739536<div class="images-v2-count-0"></div>I was very please that he was selected. Mad Dog Mattis is a warrior and our country is in better hands with his leadership! Semper Fi to all you other jarheads on this rant!!Response by LtCol J W made Jul 17 at 2017 2:45 PM2017-07-17T14:45:23-04:002017-07-17T14:45:23-04:002016-12-01T21:31:19-05:00