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

Since far fewer people are recruited to serve in a voluntary military, the connection between America and its military is increasingly tenuous and less personal.

One only has to look at the performance of the economy to understand how it shapes the perspective of America's youth about military service.

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.

We also very importantly recommend continued growth in the Army and the Marine Corps end strength.

As America celebrates Memorial Day, we pay tribute to those who have given their lives in our nation's wars.