Confirmation Hearings Right to left, Sen. David Boren, Dr. Robert Gates, and Sen. Bob Dole attend the Senate Armed Services Commitee hearings regarding the confirmation of Gates as the next secretary of defense, Dec. 5, 2006.   Defense Dept. photo by Cherie A. Thurlby Back To HomePage More Photo Essays Next About DefenseLink DoD Inspector General Freedom of Information Privacy & Security External Link Disclaimer Web Policy Contact Us USA.gov