But there is no question in my mind that without a robust nuclear energy program for electric energy, we can never get to where we need to get in terms of reducing carbon and having reliable energy at an affordable rate for the people of the United States of America.

We have to re-earn it continually, so although we have had good support, we need to continue to earn your trust and confidence.

I would just suggest to the Chairman, that seems like a technicality we need to correct.

Thank you, Senator Carper.

I understand. I think that needs to be in the record.

It would seem like although you regulate and don't advocate, it would seem like a MOX facility to reprocess spent fuel and reduce the waste by 90 percent would be something we ought to be investigating as a Nation.

Thank you, Secretary Peters, for being here.

I understand the privacy concerns.

I think that ties in to what Secretary Miller said about the increase.

I just want to confirm the conversation we had yesterday.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

What about the improvement of the Iraqi Army to step in behind us and maintain the security in those areas--particularly of Baghdad, that we have at this point in time, cleaned out, and are now holding?

I have never known anyone who has had more commitment and a higher interest in the men and women in our military.

I'm pleased to hear you say you're going to put a lot of emphasis on making sure that quality of life gets better for these folks.

At this point in time, without knowing what's going to be said in this report next month, are we seeing the kind of positive results that would justify-- irrespective of whether or not we have the soldiers to go back in and replace those folks--are we justified in thinking that we can reduce the size of the force structure next spring?

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Gentlemen, let me add my thanks for your service to our country.

With regard to these force structure changes that we have inside of Iraq today, and the new strategy we're pursuing, if we're looking at taking down that force structure in April, based upon what you know today, are we accomplishing the mission that additional force structure was dedicated to?

Mr. Secretary, thank you for your willingness to continue to serve.