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The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, speaks during a town hall meeting aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 12, 2014. The purpose of his visit was to thank service members and their families for their contribution to the nation and reinforce his commitment to the defense of the nation.

Photo by Lance Cpl. John Baker

Secretary of Defense Visits Camp Pendleton

12 Aug 2014 | Lance Cpl. John Baker

The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel, visited Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 12, 2014 to thank service members and their families for their contribution to the nation and to reinforce his commitment to the defense of the nation.

Hagel attended a Transition Readiness Seminar to gain insight on military-to-civilian transition programs during his trip.

Hagel said the program seeks to help military members with their transition out of the services as much as they can.

“When I got here and landed, we went over for a couple of sessions because I wanted to see some of your colleagues that are transitioning out,” said Hagel. “Some are retiring, others are transitioning out and I wanted to listen to the kind of effort we’re making to make sure they understand not just what their benefits are or what their options are but also what they want to do next.”

At the end of his visit, Hagel attended a town hall meeting where he spoke about his trip around the world and about things that are occurring outside of 1st Marine Expeditionary Force. He also reinforced his commitment to Marines and their families for their service.

“I want you to know that there is no higher priority for me and for our leader, President Obama, than to take care of our people and their families,” said Hagel. “We are committed to do that and will continue to do that.”