This section contains 870 words (approx. 3 pages at 400 words per page) |
Summary
Chapter 3 discusses Gates’ efforts to build relationships in Washington after assuming his duties as Secretary of Defense. He was frustrated with the number of meetings that filled his days; but, he was unsuccessful in changing the Pentagon’s approach to how briefings were conducted. One of his earliest challenges was mending rifts between the Pentagon and other entities, including members of Congress, reporters, and other agencies, as well as within the Defense Department itself. He began internally, letting his staff know how he intended to conduct business and what his priorities were, and ensuring that he listened to others and was willing to let a good argument change his mind. He worked to develop good working relationships with the most important members of Congress, observing that while most were thoughtful and insightful in private, their personalities changed when TV cameras...
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This section contains 870 words (approx. 3 pages at 400 words per page) |