I depart my position as Assistant secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology) [ASAALT] and Army Acquisition Executive on Jan. 2, 2008 - 6 years to the day from taking office. These years have been both challenging and rewarding. Challenging in addressing the complexities of providing Soldiers with the right product, at the right time and at the right place to meet their needs at a time when we are a Nation at war. Rewarding in that it was a wonderful time for me personally to work closely with a world-class team in the Army; in the Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force; the Office of the secretary of Defense; Congress; academia; and industry - both domestic and international. ...