Mark Begich actually said...

"General Dempsey, if confirmed, will you work with the other partners to ensure the divestiture timeline allows for all partners to make the necessary preparations to assume responsibility for the site..."

"I am concerned about a potential threat to U.S. national security and military operability: the issue of rare earth elements and our military's dependence on unreliable foreign nations for our supply."

"DOD being unable to sustain any more cuts to force structure."

"Mr. Panetta, do you have concerns with the Afghan Government's ability to sustain our efforts--like funding their own security forces?"