Former CIA director David Petraeus has apologized publicly for the extramarital affair that forced him to resign last November. His speech Tuesday to military veterans and ROTC students at the University of Southern California is seen as a possible step by Petraeus toward a new career in the private sector. Before leading the CIA, Petraeus directed troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. He apologized for the affair he had with his biographer, Paula Broadwell.

David Petraeus: “I join you keenly aware that I am regarded in a different light now than I was a year ago. I’m also keenly aware that the reason for my recent journey was my own doing. So please allow me to begin my remarks for this evening by reiterating how deeply I regret and apologize for the circumstances that led to my resignation from the CIA and caused such pain for my family, friends and supporters.”