the most prudent course forward would be a ground--a conditions-based determination of what we do with those 9,800 troops.

Can you confirm for me whether the Air Force has made a decision to close the A-10 Division at 422 Test and Evaluation Squadron at Nellis?

I really want people to understand.

I really appreciate what I hear most from all four of you, which is understanding the importance of this.

If sequestration returns, what will specifically happen to the readiness of our Army Brigade Combat Teams?

It would be really helpful to us, especially those of us that serve jointly on the Budget and Armed Services Committee, if all of you could submit to us what you think, in terms of flexibility for OCO.

I just have a couple of follow-ups, but, since I have my colleague, Senator Shaheen, here, I know she'd want me to follow this one up with General Spencer.

Approximately half of the Marine Corps' home station units are at an unacceptable level of readiness in their ability to execute wartime missions.

That's music to my ears, because that was my piece, and I'm glad to hear that.

We're not going to stop, either.

If sequestration levels of funding continue, we will have a hard time maintaining the balance between manpower, readiness, and modernization.

Admiral Howard, which shipyards will require this additional workforce?

Admiral Howard, how will the increased need affect each of the four public shipyards?

of the current inventory of 31 amphibious warships, how many are prepared to embark marines and deploy right now?

What is the impact of the shortfall?

What is the Marine Corps' requirement for amphibious warships?

another sequester would prevent any opportunity to recover the readiness our Nation deserves and lead to creating a hollow force we have fought so hard to avoid.

if sequestration does occur, will training simulators be cut similarly to the 2013 sequestration?