WASHINGTON- Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-TX), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, made the following statement on the retirement of Secretary of Defense Mattis:
"In January 2017, Congress took an extraordinary action by passing a law that allowed James N. Mattis to serve as Secretary of Defense. The only other time it has been done was for General George C. Marshall. Speaking in support of the legislation on the House Floor I said, 'I know of no one more respected, more admired in the field of national security today than General Mattis.' His service as Secretary over the last two years has only added to the luster of his name.
"Americans and freedom-loving people around the world have rightfully trusted his steady hand and sound judgment leading the United States Department of Defense. He inspired and motivated the men and women serving in our military. His personal integrity and forthright manner have been a model for public servants, whether military or civilian.
"I am incredibly grateful to him for being willing to serve, for fulfilling his duties with such extraordinary commitment to American national security, and for the close working relationship he fostered with the Congress."