02/28/2011
https://congress.gov...
"However, in my view, among the greatest strategic risks within the Middle East remains the ongoing ambiguity associated with U.S. commitment to our regional allies--and the region itself."
"Looking forward, our Special Operations Forces must remain flexible enough to counter the transnational terrorist threat with decisive force when warranted."
"The threat from Al Qaeda is real. It is global, networked, and clandestine."
"These operational necessities come as the military is being forced to shed force structure, curtail flying hours, and return ships to port."