WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Armed Service Committee, today released the following statement regarding the resignation of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel.

“Secretary Hagel has dedicated much of his life to public service in a number of capacities: in uniform in Vietnam, as senator from my home state of Nebraska, and as the Secretary of Defense,” Fischer said. “I thank him for his service.

“Our world is only growing increasingly dangerous. As Russia maneuvers to gain regional strength, Iran flouts international nuclear obligations, and extremist groups like ISIL continue their violent campaign of terror, it’s clear that we need decisive, strong leadership at the Pentagon. As I’ve said so many times before, we must adopt a strong strategy to combat threats to our national security and the secretary of defense is responsible for leading in this important endeavor. I look forward to a complete and thorough vetting of the President’s nominee for the next Secretary of Defense.”