Speaking at awards ceremonies recently at the United States Naval Memorial in Washington, D.C., senior officers and civilian officials said new energy initiatives will reduce defense spending without sacrificing capabilities. “Taking the long view is really important,” said Monica Medina, a special assistant to Defense Secretary Leon Panetta responsible for energy and environmental matters. Cutting costs and increasing efficiencies through environmental and energy programs is a priority in the secretary’s office and for the Navy, she said. Her comments came after Senate and House committees voted in May against the Navy’s biofuel plans.