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(Reuters) - President Barack Obama offered strong support for former Republican Senator Chuck Hagel as the potential next U.S. defense secretary but said in remarks aired on Sunday that he had not yet decided on a nominee for the Pentagon post.

Hagel is considered a leading candidate to replace outgoing Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta, but the former Nebraska lawmaker has come under criticism for his record on Israel and for a comment that being gay was an inhibiting factor for being an ambassador.

"I've served with Chuck Hagel. I know him. He is a patriot. He is somebody who has done extraordinary work both in the United States Senate, somebody who served this country with valor in Vietnam," Obama told NBC's "Meet the Press" in an interview taped on Saturday and broadcast on Sunday.

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Obama defends Chuck Hagel -- Washington Post
Obama defends Hagel; no decision on Pentagon job -- USA Today
Obama praises Hagel as a ‘patriot’ -- The Hill
Obama defends Hagel as ‘patriot’ -- Al-Monitor
Obama says no decision yet on Defense secretary, defends Hagel -- L.A. Times
Barack Obama: Chuck Hagel Shows 'Positive Change' On Gay Rights -- Huffington Post
Little enthusiasm among GOP for Hagel, but he has Obama's support -- Christian Science Monitor
Little Republican support for Hagel for Defense post-senator -- Reuters
Slim Republican support for Hagel as defense secretary -- Washington Times

My Comment: I had this experience once .... I received overflowing praise from my boss but the promotion went to someone else.