Chuck Hagel

Continuous piecemeal changes will only magnify uncertainty and doubt among our servicemembers about whether promised benefits will be there in the future.

He raised the issue of transparency with him.

The Department of Defense is going to become a better financial steward, better fiscal steward of their operation.

I am strongly committed to another round of BRAC; this is why it is included in the budget request.

Any changes in U.S. policy on Syria would be forged through a whole-of-government approach.

The Department of Defense's FY 2015 budget request reflects those critical choices necessary to address key intelligence requirements.

The effect on the industrial base is an important consideration, which was factored into the Department's investment planning and budget preparation.

The U.S. approach to Syria involves the entire government; there is no U.S. military solution to this very complex, long-term problem.

I am also well aware of your distinguished service as an aviator.

The commitment that we have expressed clearly, completely, and again, reflected in our budget...

As I said, I will follow the law, but I have authority now, Congressman.

We need a BRAC. We can't continue to carry overhead we don't need.

With the proliferation of more advanced military technologies and other nations pursuing comprehensive military modernization, we are entering an era where American dominance on the seas, in the skies, and in space can no longer be taken…

We need a predictable budget, and on time.

I think that there has to be a serious discussion about how we pay for this once-in-a-generation replacement of a strategic deterrence.

I don't think that is an event that anyone wants to see happen.

We have to have that capability ready so that they can do the early testing on that.

DOD is in the midst of a comprehensive review of our European infrastructure to create long-term savings by eliminating excess infrastructure.

DOD does not object to review of or recommendations regarding retired pay calculations for general and flag officers.

Climate change is a significant concern for DOD, affecting the operating environment as well the roles and missions.

While U.S. forces are drawn down in Afghanistan, SOF will be reallocated into other theaters.

The primary missions of Special Operations Forces will not change.

The administration looks forward to working with Congress to determine the specific investments that would be funded.

Over the past several decades, the United States and our allies have enjoyed a military capability advantage over any potential adversary.

Yes, technological superiority is not assured and continued sequestration will reduce the Nation's ability to maintain technological advantages in the future.