America : Our Next Chapter: Tough Questions, Straight Answers

Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has long been admired for his honesty, integrity, and commonsense approach to the challenges of our times. The Los Angeles Times has praised his "bold positions on foreign policy and national security" and wondered, "What's not to like?" In America: Our Next Chapter, Nebraska-born Hagel offers a hard-hitting examination of the state of our nation and provides substantial, meaningful proposals that can guide America back onto the right path.

Basing his suggestions on thorough research and careful thought, as well as on personal insight from his years as a political insider, successful businessman, and decorated war hero, he discusses domestic issues such as control of U.S. debt and confronts foreign policy problems, including China's growing economy and Iran's aggressive political, ideological, and nuclear stances. Always true to the beliefs instilled in him during his childhood on the prairie, he speaks passionately about service—to one's country and to one's fellow citizens—as the path toward a renewed America.

A staunch Republican yet a "hero to liberals" (Time), Secretary Hagel asks the tough questions and delivers straight answers to America's most pressing problems. America: Our Next Chapter is a serious, honest, and ultimately optimistic look at our nation's future, from an American original.

Chuck Hagel served two terms in the U.S. Senate and was sworn in as the 24th Secretary of Defense on February 27, 2013, becoming the first enlisted combat veteran to lead the Department of Defense. Hagel and his brother Tom served side by side in Vietnam in 1968 as infantry squad leaders with the U.S. Army's 9th Division. He earned many military decorations and honors, including two Purple Hearts. A fourth-generation Nebraskan, Secretary Hagel is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Hagel and his wife, Lilibet, have two children.