As our military draws down, our dedicated civilians -- diplomats, aid workers, and advisors -- are moving into the lead to support Iraq as it strengthens its government, resolves political disputes, resettles those displaced by war, and builds ties with the region and the world.

WHITEHOUSE: The End of the Combat Mission in Iraq

And Los Angeles's Skid Row, in a way, compels them to be not only police officers but social workers, counselors, housing advisors.

NPR: LAPD Chief on Making the City Safer

Informed by his advisors that winning the support of space workers around Cape Canaveral was important to carrying Florida in the primaries, Obama beat a hasty retreat.

FORBES: Saving NASA From The Obama Science Fair