the development and proliferation of more advanced military technologies by other nations means that we are entering an era where American dominance on the seas, in the skies, and in space can no longer be taken for granted.

Secretary Hagel, what steps were taken to ensure you are not double-counting these cuts with the current round of efficiencies?

You have noted previously that you believe piecemeal changes to reform can cause harm and that a holistic approach is the best model.

I believe that Congress and DOD owe it to the men and women in uniform, who do so much for their country, to adopt these proposals and thereby ensure that they have the training and equipment they need to succeed in battle now and into the…

DOD concluded that, even after making these changes and slowing the growth in military compensation, DOD will still be able to recruit and retain a high quality force and offer generous, competitive, and sustainable benefits.

We are on a path where the force is so degraded and so unready that it would be immoral to use force.

The loss in the depth across the force could reduce our ability that intimidates opponents from escalating in conflict.

What is being done to our military is not new. We have made this mistake before.

the tide of war is not receding. Instead, U.S. national security is being challenged in ways we have never seen before.

I think, as part of the educational thing, we're going to have to really work on the media to properly express to the American people the reality of what we're facing and of the threat that's there.

I think we all understand that.

it's more important than just that, because it does open the door for others who do not have our best interests at heart.