Robert Gates in Afghanistan
Lynsey Addario / VII Network for TIME
Upward
Within Afghanistan, Gates has worked to improve logistics and operations. One of his priorities has been to improve the military's medevac capabilities. Whereas before an injured solider may have had to wait as long as one hour and 41 minutes to be evacuated, that time has improved to an hour or less.
Get the Latest Photos from Time.com
Get TIME photos and pictures of the week delivered directly to your inbox.