The military’s top uniformed officer declared Tuesday that gays should be allowed to serve openly in uniform, arguing that it is “the right thing to do.“

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told American troops Friday in this oil-rich northern city that their mission in Iraq remains critical despite the nation’s focus on Afghanistan and that plans are on track to reduce forces next year.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Friday that NATO allies are moving toward sending more troops and civilian aid to Afghanistan.

Obama, Stephen Harper will meet in the Oval Office. Later today, the president will meet with former Secretary of State Colin Powell.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday he sees “some chance of a modest acceleration” in the pace of U.S. troop withdrawal from Iraq.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates got a firsthand look Tuesday at the future of the U.S. military mission in southern Iraq.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the United States will seek much tougher United Nations sanctions on Iran if that nation spurns the offer of talks on its disputed nuclear program.

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says it does not appear that North Korea has made military preparations to follow through on its threat of retaliation for new United Nations sanctions.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates says not to expect quick changes in the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy on gays.

Virginia is fighting a looming decision by the Navy to move an aircraft carrier from Norfolk to Mayport Naval Air Station near Jacksonville, Fla.