The inherent challenge to operating in Africa is sustainment.

It's not as if only one place is on fire. They're all on fire right now and this is the problem that we have.

One of the greatest security risks we are now facing as a Nation is that this budget uncertainty could prompt the most significant military readiness crisis in more than a decade.

I don't agree. That's no way to achieve our security objectives.

My position on that would be that they knew that at the time, because I've talked to several different people who stated that they knew it, and unequivocally that would have been a terrorist attack.

DOD has strengthened its relationship with the Departments of State and Health and Human Services to ensure that all of the Departments understand their roles and responsibilities during evacuation operations.

Our strategic security objectives in many parts of the world, particularly in Africa, are best achieved by, with, and through partner nations.

I know you did, and we did, too. I've talked to him about this and we know that the assets just weren't available when you look at the other places.

But I would have to ask you the same question about the annex. Wouldn't you agree that that was a preplanned terrorist attack unequivocally?

Mr. Hagel, I am very concerned about the significant rise in military suicides.

I'd like to ask you to make those five African brigades a top priority during the time that you're spending down there.

Do you believe DOD has adequate tools to track efficiencies?