July : Defense Secretary Leon Paul meeting with troops in Libya . Paul also helps pass along holiday packages to the troops . Turkey is a key ally in Mideast , Panetta says . `` This whole trip ( will ) give the secretary a chance to get a feeling for the situation on the ground , '' and the supply routes issue will be a topic of discussion , the official said . Libya represents what the Arab Spring is all about , he says .
July : Defense Secretary Leon Paul meeting with troops in Libya . Paul also helps pass along holiday packages to the troops . Turkey is a key ally in Mideast , Panetta says . Libya represents what the Arab Spring is all about , he says .