I just want to make a quick editorial comment, then I just have one question.

I don't think that is acceptable, it is not the number we should be at, and I think as a Congress we should not forget that we still have a very strong obligation to address revenue and to address mandatory spending.

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.

if we reauthorize that, that will be the first time in 3 years. It is a $17 billion reauthorization.

Reauthorizing NASA is very important.

I couldn't have asked for a better question about trying to find quality people.

We hope that you would credit the committee's budget with any savings that accrue.

As it stands today, our military strategy, the defense budget, the DOD policy, and the threats around the world are mismatched.