Daniel Akaka: “I rise today to support the Armed Services Committee actions on the fiscal year 2002 Defense authorization bill. I also…”

“I rise today to support the Armed Services Committee actions on the fiscal year 2002 Defense authorization bill. I also commend the chairman, Mr. Levin, and ranking member, Mr. Warner, for their part in leading the committee, as well as guiding the committee, in their efforts to bring about a bill that will give confidence to the people of our country. My friend and partner, Senator Inhofe, and I have worked closely to ensure that the Readiness Subcommittee's actions support the full committee's five goals for this bill. As Chairman Levin has described, these goals are: One, to continue improvements in the quality of life; two, to sustain readiness; three, to encourage transformation; four, to improve the capability of the Department of Defense to meet nontraditional threats; and five, to increase the efficiency of Department of Defense operations. Our subcommittee worked together to make contributions in all five areas, and these actions are reflected in the bill we present to you today.”