Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) released the following statement today on the resignation of Admiral William Fallon as CENTCOM Commander:

"Admiral Fallon's resignation represents a significant loss to our military and our nation at a time when our Armed Forces needs a strong, independent leader who is willing to make honest assessments of this Administration's strategic policies. 

"Admiral Fallon's decision to resign is yet one more example of this Administration silencing our top military leaders.  It is not only necessary but mandatory that these military experts who have spent years in the field serving our country have the ability to express their concerns without fear of censure or reprisal.  The inability of leaders such as Admiral Fallon to independently express their opinion on matters vital to our national defense underscores the need for a new Administration, one that will welcome the input of military leaders, even when those opinions challenge the President.

"I have had the honor and privilege of working with Admiral Fallon, both in my capacity as a senior member of the Armed Services Committee and during his tenure as Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command.  I know him to be a man of honor and integrity whose primary concern is always, first and foremost, the defense of this nation and the well-being of the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces.  He embodies the best qualities of any individual who assumes the mantle and obligation of leadership.

"I want to thank Admiral Fallon for his over three decades of service to this nation.  His outstanding commitment and dedication have served as a model to us all."

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