What can happen on the ground with these security contractors, in terms of undermining our relationship with the Iraqi people.

I think we have to really do a much better job of getting a handle on all that.

I'm concerned, first of all, I think, at first blush, it potentially is an Antideficiency Act (ADA) violation.

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.

I have some real concerns about the leadership in Iraq and their capability of carrying out their plans.

General, you obviously have a great challenge in front of you.

It is going to require a political resolution and a military resolution.

One issue that I have had relative to this ongoing conflict is the fact that I have been disappointed that from an intelligence-gathering standpoint we have not in my opinion achieved the results that we should have been achieving at this…

Thank you, General. As you accept this challenge, obviously our best wishes go to you for a huge success.

General Casey, first of all let me just echo the sentiments of all of us in thanking you and your family for the terrific commitment that you have all made to the service to our country and to tell you how much we appreciate that…

I believe that this is an extremely important priority, since, in the end, it's the Afghan forces who can best defend and secure Afghanistan.

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.

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…

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…

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