I just found this:

I admire Atatrk and Turks: US defense chief

In another article appears this:

“Ataturk is one of the most valuable leaders in the 21st century. The children in the United States know nothing about such a big leader. He should be taught at schools, take part in history books,” U.S. Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel said during a speech at a session organized by the American-Turkish Council in Washington, D.C.

How did that not cause a shitstorm in Washington.