This strategy requires DOD to sustain a global presence, with a rebalancing of our forces toward the Asia-Pacific region.

No. DOD did not assess the impact of a BRAC in the next few years on the economy and unemployment rates.

Failure to fund our fiscal year 2013 commitment will be viewed by our allies as reneging on our promises.

Secretary Panetta, how well the JSF program does under its contract for the fourth block of low-rate initial production (LRIP-4) aircraft by the end of the year was supposed to indicate how much the program is on track.

This is a major achievement of U.S. policy; a decision by Congress to prohibit any additional funding for MEADS at this late date would diminish the consensus reached in Chicago.

DOD takes hazing very seriously.

the administration's announcement to end combat operations in Afghanistan in 2013 sends exactly the wrong signal to our friends and enemies in this conflict.

Secretary Panetta, exactly what conditions on the ground will be assessed to determine the pace of combat force reductions?

All servicemembers, regardless of sexual orientation, are entitled to an environment free from personal, social, or institutional barriers.

Secretary Panetta, will DOD abide by the requirements in section 2207 of the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2012?

Secretary Panetta and General Dempsey, why not utilize U.S. locations, like Alaska, as we shift our focus to the Asia-Pacific region to simultaneously promote economic development and readiness?

Since the repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell almost 6 months ago, gay and lesbian servicemembers have been serving openly without fear of discharge.

the consequences of sequestration as catastrophic

Secretary Panetta and General Dempsey, although DOD's new Defense Strategic Guidance emphasizes a rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region--predominantly a maritime theater--the administration's plan calls for the Navy to retire seven cruisers and two other major amphibious ships needed by the Marine Corps earlier than planned.

Secretary Panetta, if you are presented a request for a formal position on a particular spending item of this nature, can I expect a firm and unequivocal position from you stating why you either oppose or support the spending?

Secretary Panetta, is there a Plan B for the F-35 JSF if both procurement and sustainment costs are not controlled and if so, what could those options be?

The Prime benefit is no longer cost neutral compared to Standard/Extra plans.

What incentive can the Taliban possibly have to negotiate meaningfully with the Afghanistan Government or with us when they know that the United States is leaving regardless?