ROBERT HALE: “I am so anxious that we try out various pieces, get independent public accountants to give us their own opinion, and…”

If our assumptions about Iraq or Afghanistan turn out to be overly optimistic, or if global conditions change for the worse, we would be able to adjust the size and schedule of this change or even reverse it altogether.

We hope that Congress will enact this deficit reduction plan, or an alternative that the President can sign, and then repeal sequestration.

Please don't use the word nonessential as regards our civilians.

We strongly hope the Congress will pass this plan or another plan supported by President and repeal sequestration.