Kay Hagan

One of the things about this hearing that is exceptional is the fact that before us we have three highly qualified and distinguished women leading large and important technical organizations on behalf of the Nation.

I'm not sure I understand what the gift basket was that these countries didn't agree with.

I think we owe it to the children, we owe it to their parents, to provide the best STEM opportunities possible.

I want to follow up, Mr. Shaffer. Since fiscal year 2010, the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) program has been cut from $67 million down to $36 million.

I think maybe better oversight from DOD could make a big difference.

the fiscal year 2015 request reduces funding for the Global Threat Reduction Initiative (GTRI) by roughly 25 percent relative to last year's appropriation.

I am deeply concerned with an Air Force proposal that would remove all of the C-130s stationed at Pope Army Airfield at Fort Bragg.

I was so pleased at the beginning of the hearing to hear Chairman Johnson's introduction and welcome to you as the first woman to head up the Federal Reserve.

we cannot seek to balance the budget on the backs of our servicemembers.

I worry that the Air Force is considering force structure changes based upon considerations other than the greatest military value.

Proposals in this budget would result in the inactivation of the Air Force's 440th Airlift Wing from Pope Airfield at Fort Bragg, NC.

I too want to express my deep concern, my heartfelt prayers and condolences, to what's taking place at Fort Hood now.

Obviously, I oppose moving the C-130Js from Pope.

I am deeply concerned about a proposal from the Air Force that's in discussion now that would remove all of the C-130s stationed at Pope Army Air Field at Fort Bragg.

This is a rushed proposal that would attempt to push through a drastic decision before Congress has the opportunity to review it through the full authorization and appropriation process.

Secretary Hagel and General Dempsey, am I correct in understanding that if sequestration continues after fiscal year 2015, it will make it very difficult to maintain our technological advantage in the future?

I am concerned about the effect that renewed sequestration could have on readiness.

Now they're getting credit for that.

I appreciate your service. I know you have a lot on your plate today.

Am I correct in understand that DOD made numerous difficult decisions in this budget request specifically in order to ensure that our modernization programs will preserve our technical superiority?

It really is a problem, because if you wait years down the road, the catch-up will be way too long to be competitive on the front end.

I think the cost analysis is what we're looking for the reasoning, and the discussion and consultation with the 82nd Airborne unit that is located at Fort Bragg.

I think it's very important that the Air Force at least consider inputs from all stakeholders in these very important decisions.

I rise today to speak in support of S. 1963. I ask unanimous consent that after my remarks, Senator Brown from Ohio follow me for a time not to exceed 10 minutes. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

this is a bill Senator Pryor and I have introduced to repeal the harmful cuts to military retirement pay in the recent Bipartisan Budget Act. As the Senator from the most military- friendly State in the Nation, I am pleased that we have…