And looking over your shoulder because we don't want to create a nanny State here.

There are things that we can do as far as the statutes are concerned, and we look forward to your recommendations in that regard.

Clearly, terrorism--fighting terrorism was a national priority that, by necessity, received much more attention and requirements for the local U.S. Attorney's Office to devote its resources.

We know that the overwhelming percentage of people who are incarcerated on crack violations are African American and minorities.

I want to talk a little bit about the U.S. Attorneys and the supervision of U.S. Attorneys.

I appreciate that clarification for the record.

We do have a justice integrity bill which Senator Specter and I have filed that will allow for ten pilot programs to work within each of the U.S. Attorneys.

I think it's, 5 grams will trigger a minimum sentence of 5 years for crack cocaine violations, whereas powdered cocaine, it's 500 grams, so you have a 100:1 disparity.

The Constitution is not only loved and respected, it is the basis of the rule of law of our country.

I would just urge you to take a very active role in that regard, and I thank you for your response.

I also want to thank all of you for being willing to serve your country.

the minority use of crack cocaine is much lower than the incarceration rate of minorities for violations of the crack cocaine statutes.

Why do you say that?

Statistics from the International Maritime Bureau indicate that there were 293 actual and attempted pirate attacks against vessels worldwide in 2008.

If a merchant vessel comes under attack by pirates in international waters, what are the rules of engagement for the crew members on that vessel?

So you mean you have got a ship that is carrying millions upon millions and millions of dollars' worth of goods such as oil, and some little boat can come up with some folks with some guns and take over that ship?

We train as we fight.

Force protection has always been a top priority to both of these subcommittees.