Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates thanks members of the Boy Scouts of America after receiving the Citizen of the Year award at their annual dinner in Washington, D.C., Nov. 15. Since 1968, the National Capital Area Council has annually saluted a great American leader as "Citizen of the Year," honoring those who serve as a good example and are dedicated to serve among youth in America. (Defense Dept. photo/Cherie A. Thurlby)