Thad Cochran: “The importance of the Navy and Marine Corps role is becoming even greater with increased presence in the Asia-Pacific…”

Mr. Chairman, let me join you in congratulating our panel here and the participation you're bringing to this challenge.

I understand that the Army's unfunded requirements list includes a $3.1 billion increase in end strength beyond the fiscal year 2017 NDAA mandate.

Ensuring that the Corps has adequate funding to meet its responsibilities is a high priority of mine.

We want to know what the priorities are for funding.