Thanks for that link. The following is an editorial from me. It's just my observations!
"...I could tell you about the Marine Corps I joined in 1976 and I don't want to be in that Marine Corps; not that there weren't good Marines, but I like this Marine Corps a lot better..."
Yeah? I don't agree, General. "This" Marine Corps is no different than "that" Marine Corps.
"Better" is pretty subjective, too.
He goes on to say;
"...last year because for the first time we were really struggling to make our numbers, to keep folks, particularly in our senior enlisted. This year we're -- we're on track to make it. So, whatever happened I think -- I think there was -- because we had an appropriation, we had money for bonuses, even with the economy being what it is, we're keeping enough qualified folks and some of the very best..."
Whatever happened? Come on, you're talking to Congress. Have some numbers written down. Don't guess about it. Congress gives you money to buy equipment for Marines (so they don't have to wait for hand-me-downs from the Army).
Again - I'm sorry brother - but you weren't prepared properly to talk to Congress.