last year, we received testimony from DOD that more than half of the 300 local educational agencies serving military children were not meeting academic standards in reading/ language arts and/or math.

We all agree that the Reserve components, including the National Guard, will continue to be operational assets of the armed forces, is that correct?

Most people want to stay. Being told you're disabled and unable to serve is a dramatic event.

To me, it means you're going to go a lot, yes.

For too long, the challenges of managing a military family have prevented many spouses from securing long-term, fulfilling employment.

I think it would do more harm than good to reduce those brigadier general spots that serve the Air Force well.

To me, that is a personnel issue we need to come to grips with.

I just really question, is that a wise decision?

community involvement is essential for the Reserve components--even more so than the Active component, is that correct?

I support both initiatives and the key elements of the focus areas that the White House has already chosen to emphasize through the Joining Forces initiative.

the YRRP is funded in fiscal year 2012, but may not be funded in fiscal year 2013.

Secretary Hale, you served as a member of a Task Force in 2007 created by Congress to examine the future of military health care.

Are these enduring increases in the base budget for fiscal year 2012, or are these contingent on war-time funding?

National economic impacts and subsequent State budget cuts . . . may impede school districts' abilities to provide special education services.

do you agree that providing access to a quality education for our kids is a readiness requirement for the All-Volunteer Force?

The plan is to deepen the Panama Canal so that super cargo ships can pass through the canal.

It is going to change shipping as we know it.

I would like to recommend to this subcommittee this would be a good use of our time to look as a Nation what does it mean for these ships to come through the Panama Canal.