I do want to thank all our nominees for their willingness to serve.

We all know the important role that newspapers and the press have played in the development of our Nation and our democracy.

It is not going to solve the entire problem, but it will certainly save American lives.

I believe in deterrence. I am a firm believer in making a hard target.

I think we all agree that the absence of stable government in Somalia remains the single greatest challenge to regional security.

And as a result, subject to special insurance premiums that could cost shippers $10,000 to $20,000 more per ship through the area.

Do you see that role as protective in nature, or is it more reactionary?

I think the recent attack has really captured the Nation's attention and focus and sort of underscored the increasing violence and the range of Somali piracy.

The Coast Guard has deployed at least one law enforcement detachment to the U.S. task force currently patrolling off of the Horn of Africa.

We need embarked security teams, armed escort security teams.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

We need to shift away from a focus on pay entitlements to one of recovery, rehabilitation, transition, and making the servicemember a viable member of society.