04/17/2012
https://www.congress.gov...
"What steps is the Navy taking to ensure it makes steady progress toward its 313-ship fleet while facing an uncertain budget situation and ongoing maintenance requirements?"
"we have the best military in the world, and that we must keep the best military in the world."
"Notwithstanding the steps taken by Congress to increase investments, reported readiness rates have significantly declined over the past 10 years, record funding and still a significant decline."
"the most important priority of the Federal Government is our national defense."