Since George Washington, Americans have been electing Commanders-in-Chief to provide for the common defense. That is a solemn constitutional duty, of course. But really, it is any government’s first function.

We do not elect a president’s individual national security team members. Nor should we burden national security team members with the fluctuating passions of politics, partisan or otherwise.

Absent reasons of a very high order for any given nominee’s disqualification, it is our president’s right and duty to command the national security team of his or her choosing. President Obama has now designated his Secretary of Defense. Accordingly, the ‘friendly fire’ of all American critics should cease.

A rigorous U.S. Senate confirmation process will insure our tradition of much-needed checks and balances. But that process should be as respectful to each nominee as the gravity of the mission each position demands.

We should especially wish President Obama and Secretary of Defense Designate Hagel every success in their critical missions for our country’s defense.

I do hope that Secretary Designate Hagel will make the time and effort to assure LGB service members, in word and deed, of his commitment to their equality and that of their LGBT families, loved ones and survivors.

Ingrained, historical prejudice does not end overnight. It is never too late, nor too impolitic, for our civilian commanders to find meaningful ways to boost force morale and honor the dignity and sacrifice of all.