My heroes are the non-commissioned officers. If I had another life that's what I'd be - a regimental sergeant major or a similar rank. That's where the spirit of the armed forces is.

If I had another life, that's what I'd be - a regimental sergeant major or a similar rank. That's where the spirit of the armed forces is.

I was Minister for the Armed Forces in the Ministry of Defence for two years prior to being appointed Defence Secretary.

I'll tell you what I do have: I have a good feel for ordinary people, for politics, and those are my strengths. I understand, I hope instinctively, where many of our Armed Forces come from.

Our men and women in our armed forces are the real heroes in this conflict.

You know, 1% of us is in the armed forces, protecting the other 99, and they're all volunteers.