And thank you, gentlemen, for being here this morning and for your service to our country.

One of the things that I am committed to, this whole committee is committed to is working together across party lines to get something done.

I think that is really the key to making a fit within the budget.

We definitely need--desperately need to get this appropriations bill done for the military.

The budget states that the Air Force has 'requested an interagency transfer of the Space Shuttle Atlantis to the National Museum of the United States Air Force.'

I think the initial take, finding $178 billion in efficiencies now, as Secretary Gates said yesterday, the great quote, he said the outyears are when everybody's dreams come true.

I know in the Air Force, it is particularly challenging because you have significant programatic upgrades that are being required.

I want to thank both General Schwartz and Secretary Donley for their outstanding leadership in the Air Force.

My good friend Congresswoman Giffords has worked on throughout her years on this committee.

I start by agreeing with you on two critical points: Number one, the need to get a Defense Appropriations bill this year and not rely on a CR.

We make sure not to jeopardize our national security needs and priorities as we do that.