MCLEAN, Va. — Former Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, who will discuss global politics and U.S. foreign policy, joins a lineup of industry and inspirational keynote speakers at the 2013 National Automobile Dealers Association Convention and Expo.

The conference takes place in February 2013 in Orlando, Fla. Gates served as the 22nd secretary of defense from 2006 to 2011 under both President Barack Obama and former President George W. Bush. He is the only secretary of defense in U.S. history to be asked to remain in that office by a newly-elected president. In all, Gates has served eight U.S. presidents.

Other keynote speakers include John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America, NADA Chairman Bill Underriner, a new-car dealer from Billings, Mont., and incoming NADA Chairman David Westcott, a new-car dealer from Burlington, N.C. Captain Mark Kelly, former NASA astronaut, space shuttle commander of Endeavour’s final mission and husband of former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, will also be there to deliver an inspirational address.

The 96th annual NADA convention runs from Feb. 8011, 2013, at the Orange County Convention Center. For more information or to register, visit www.nadaconventionandexpo.org.