Deputy Secretary of Defense Norquist and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Hyten Hold a Press Briefing at the Pentagon

DEPUTY SECRETARY OF DEFENSE DAVID L. NORQUIST: Before we begin, I'd like to pause for a moment to reflect on the over 14,000 Americans we've lost to this virus over the past several weeks. They and their loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers. This is a tough time for our nation, but with the incredible work of our medical professionals, we shall overcome this challenge, just as we've overcome all others we've faced throughout history. To those who wish us harm, make no mistake: even with the challenges that this disease has brought to our shores, the Department of Defense stands ready to meet any threat and defend our nation. Over the last four years, we have rebuilt our military from t...