per this plan it seems that the Navy is being realistic in understanding that we have some pretty expensive ships being procured, especially once we get in to FY18-FY32.

We have a documented history of retiring surface combatants early.

Again, but there are two ways. One may be prepaid, which may or may not carry--you might have a telecom risk.

Some up here like to argue that we have the smallest Navy since WWI. In reality we now have highly trained, all-volunteer crews that operate the most technologically advanced ships in the world.

Is this in the best interest of national security, not just based on today's needs but what we project out into the future?

I just wanted to stop by and give my voice of support here for Dr. Sowers.

If you are medically retired from the military, it is 30 percent or above where you can use commissary and exchange.

the number one priority of the Federal Government from my point of view is to defend the Nation

Secretary Hale, you mentioned the cross section of the Total Force when it comes to the reductions that we are looking at.

I think we have an obligation to provide them with a benefit package that is very generous and reflects their sacrifice and service.

So if you are somebody out there, having retired, looking at what it is going to cost you for health care, you are seeing... a significant jump with the proposals from DOD.

taking care of those who have served is the best way to recruit people in the future

Do you see any indication of a resistance in the employer community because of the deployment cycles?

I believe whether there is a specific contractual obligation or not, when someone has served a full career, we have a moral obligation to provide them with lifetime medical care.

I totally agree with that, but what I am saying to you is you cannot renegotiate the front end once the back end is done.

So you are continuing the process that was begun when Secretary Gates initiated it?

As I have said many times, our health care difficulties, as we have seen from the last 3 days in the Supreme Court, is a national problem.

Actually, if you will see the first line there, that is the lowest tier. Also, let us remember if somebody is on that upper tier, they are also paying Medicare again for the money that they are making.