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Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Martin Dempsey answers a question during a town hall meeting with Marines, sailors and former service members aboard Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., Sept. 5. Dempsey discussed a wide range of topics including involvement in the Middle East, and how budget cuts affect service members worldwide.

Photo by Cpl. Bradley Carrier

CJCS Gen. Dempsey visits troops at Naval Station Great Lakes

5 Sep 2014 | Cpl. Bradley Carrier 9th Marine Corps District

Gen. Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, visited the Marines, sailors, and former service members aboard Naval Station Great Lakes, Ill., Sept. 5, in order to discuss and answer questions about foreign and domestic policy, budget constraints, and service-wide drawback of military personnel.

“I first of all want to extend my thanks to you for having me come out, and to really sit down and hear from all of you fine men and women,” Dempsey said. “It’s not every day that I get to speak to so many men and women and hear their thoughts on what’s going on in their military”.

Dempsey discussed a wide range of topics including ISIS and their presence in Iraq, nuclear proliferation and the how budget cuts affect service members worldwide.

“I believe that we’re heading in the right direction as a global force,” Dempsey said. “Your support and concern is affirmation that we are indeed doing a great job in all aspects.”

During the one hour question and answer session, Marines, sailors and former service members asked the general for his take on current events.

Marine Sgt. Jason Womelsdorf, separations chief with the 9th Marine Corps District, asked what America’s leadership thinks of current military affairs.

Dempsey said each and every person in the United States military is a vital link in the success of the mission.

“Each and every person is crucial in the success of the mission, and if there wasn’t one hundred percent confidence in their ability then we wouldn’t be so successful as a nation,” he said.

By the conclusion of the meeting, Dempsey eased many concerns about ISIS and the U.S. military’s involvement overseas.

Dempsey said the military really need to focus on training, investing in our skill sets, and focusing on keeping America safe.

“I want to thank you all again for having me come speak to you, and to get a better understanding of what all of you are accomplishing towards our common goal on a daily basis,” Dempsey said. “Keep up the good work, and remember why Americans worldwide thank you for your service.”


9th Marine Corps District