Americans have an expectation that the Postal Service will abide by its well-known, although unofficial, motto - a commitment to deliver.

Aquatic invasive species are destroying the environment, damaging fisheries, and costing American taxpayers billions of dollars annually.

The more we focus on using renewable fuels, the less we are dependent upon foreign oil.

But the fact is, Mr. Chairman, for all the challenges the Postal Service of the 21st century faces, it still retains its traditional place as a key cog in how American businesses conduct their affairs and how Americans all across this land communicate.

Last month, the Iraqi people went to the polls, voting in their first free election in more than 50 years.

We have already seen evidence that, notwithstanding the addition of substantial resources, we are experiencing great stress in recruiting and not inconsequential retention problems.

In the Armed Services Committee, we endeavored to put forth proposals that would help alleviate some of that stress, both for the troops and for their families.