this really is, at the end, about values, integrity, and allowing our men and women in the Armed Forces to serve openly with honor.

I think we will listen attentively to the other panels for some clarity about what the current challenges are.

Senator Coons.

I think this is a very important topic, and in reading the briefing materials beforehand was reminded of just the challenges that both our troops in the field face and that civilians face in theater.

Is my perception that these borders, broadly, are highly porous and poorly policed correct?

How engaged and how helpful has the Karzai administration been on the ground in Afghanistan...

I am glad to join you in today's hearing and look forward to working with you in what time I have left on this Committee.

If I might, Ms. McGrath, you had spoken previously that the Department of Defense was working to achieve some cost savings through the streamlining of its processes.

Thank you, Chairman Akaka, thank you, Senator Voinovich, for what from the testimony today has clearly been an effective and engaged job of oversight.

So, in other words, if you are saying a look at total cost is not just a per transaction cost, but the total benefit to the public, to the national security----

Thank you very much, Chairman Akaka, and my purpose today is to join you in this hearing, in part to continue the good work of Senator Kaufman of Delaware, in whose shoes I attempt to stand today.