1 00:00:01,220 --> 00:00:04,270 - Hello everyone and welcome to today's virtual town hall. 2 00:00:04,270 --> 00:00:05,920 I'm Secretary of Defense Mark Esper 3 00:00:05,920 --> 00:00:06,753 and I'm joined today 4 00:00:06,753 --> 00:00:08,270 by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, 5 00:00:08,270 --> 00:00:11,020 General Milley, and by the Senior Enlisted Advisor 6 00:00:11,020 --> 00:00:13,260 to the Chairman Colon-Lopez. 7 00:00:13,260 --> 00:00:16,190 Today we wanna talk to you about all the DoD is doing 8 00:00:16,190 --> 00:00:19,441 to protect our people, our troops, our families, 9 00:00:19,441 --> 00:00:20,810 from the coronavirus. 10 00:00:20,810 --> 00:00:23,620 And what we're also doing to support the interagency 11 00:00:23,620 --> 00:00:26,810 whole of government efforts to protect the American people. 12 00:00:26,810 --> 00:00:29,169 First, I wanna thank all of you for your patience 13 00:00:29,169 --> 00:00:31,090 and your commitment to our nation 14 00:00:31,090 --> 00:00:32,940 in this time of great challenge. 15 00:00:32,940 --> 00:00:34,470 It is a time of great challenge 16 00:00:34,470 --> 00:00:37,290 as we face this global pandemic that is upon us. 17 00:00:37,290 --> 00:00:40,098 But I wanna reassure you that the administration, 18 00:00:40,098 --> 00:00:42,900 the military are taking all necessary measures 19 00:00:42,900 --> 00:00:45,840 to protect our force, to protect our people, 20 00:00:45,840 --> 00:00:47,030 to protect our dependents, 21 00:00:47,030 --> 00:00:49,590 to protect our contractors and our civilians. 22 00:00:49,590 --> 00:00:53,010 I have made protecting our people our top priority. 23 00:00:53,010 --> 00:00:54,580 The second priority that I've outlined 24 00:00:54,580 --> 00:00:56,040 for the past couple months 25 00:00:56,040 --> 00:00:59,060 has been ensuring the safeguarding 26 00:00:59,060 --> 00:01:00,960 of our national mission capabilities. 27 00:01:00,960 --> 00:01:03,140 In other words, making sure we can do our mission 28 00:01:03,140 --> 00:01:06,340 when called upon to do it, and I'm confident that we can. 29 00:01:06,340 --> 00:01:08,840 Third priority is supporting the whole of government effort, 30 00:01:08,840 --> 00:01:10,940 again, to protect the American people. 31 00:01:10,940 --> 00:01:12,810 DoD is all in on this. 32 00:01:12,810 --> 00:01:14,860 We have deployed thousands of National Guardsmen 33 00:01:14,860 --> 00:01:17,301 from all 50 states plus four territories. 34 00:01:17,301 --> 00:01:19,840 The Army is deploying field hospitals 35 00:01:19,840 --> 00:01:21,540 to a couple of our major cities. 36 00:01:21,540 --> 00:01:25,380 The Navy will be soon deploying our medical hospital ships 37 00:01:25,380 --> 00:01:28,658 to both Los Angeles and to New York City. 38 00:01:28,658 --> 00:01:31,640 At the same time, our world class researchers 39 00:01:31,640 --> 00:01:33,310 at places like Fort Detrick, Maryland, 40 00:01:33,310 --> 00:01:35,430 are all in with regard to helping 41 00:01:35,430 --> 00:01:39,080 with the multi-sector effort to come up with vaccines 42 00:01:39,080 --> 00:01:41,487 and therapeutics to help protect the American people 43 00:01:41,487 --> 00:01:43,400 from the coronavirus. 44 00:01:43,400 --> 00:01:45,360 We're also helping in many other ways as well, 45 00:01:45,360 --> 00:01:47,710 whether it's opening up our strategic stockpiles 46 00:01:47,710 --> 00:01:49,350 of masks and ventilators, 47 00:01:49,350 --> 00:01:51,970 and other pieces of equipment to help the American people. 48 00:01:51,970 --> 00:01:53,550 Again, DoD is fully supporting 49 00:01:53,550 --> 00:01:55,950 the whole of government effort and I'm very proud 50 00:01:55,950 --> 00:01:58,020 of what all of the folks here at the Pentagon, 51 00:01:58,020 --> 00:02:01,050 and across the force, are doing to help the American people. 52 00:02:01,050 --> 00:02:03,570 Again, this is a great challenge that is before us, 53 00:02:03,570 --> 00:02:05,250 but I am confident we will get through this 54 00:02:05,250 --> 00:02:07,730 and we'll be better off at the end of the day. 55 00:02:07,730 --> 00:02:09,970 There are several things that we will discuss this morning 56 00:02:09,970 --> 00:02:13,600 with regard to how you can do your part and do better, 57 00:02:13,600 --> 00:02:16,420 in terms of helping protect yourselves, and your colleagues, 58 00:02:16,420 --> 00:02:20,613 and your shipmates, and other members of your unit, 59 00:02:20,613 --> 00:02:22,430 to protect from the coronavirus. 60 00:02:22,430 --> 00:02:24,970 We've talked a good deal about social distancing, 61 00:02:24,970 --> 00:02:27,563 about wiping down surfaces, and door knobs, 62 00:02:27,563 --> 00:02:30,387 and computer keyboards, all those things you can do. 63 00:02:30,387 --> 00:02:32,960 We also encourage you to follow, 64 00:02:32,960 --> 00:02:35,180 urge you to follow the CDC guidance 65 00:02:35,180 --> 00:02:37,500 with regard to safe distancing, safe practices, 66 00:02:37,500 --> 00:02:40,440 and the President's 15 day guidance, 67 00:02:40,440 --> 00:02:43,832 with regard to standing down, avoiding large gatherings. 68 00:02:43,832 --> 00:02:45,373 At the end of the day though, 69 00:02:45,373 --> 00:02:47,820 given all the different scenarios and factors 70 00:02:47,820 --> 00:02:49,780 that each one of you and us face, 71 00:02:49,780 --> 00:02:51,320 I trust upon our commanders 72 00:02:51,320 --> 00:02:52,610 and our senior enlisted personnel 73 00:02:52,610 --> 00:02:55,290 to do the right thing particular to your unit, 74 00:02:55,290 --> 00:02:57,190 to your situation, to your mission. 75 00:02:57,190 --> 00:02:59,190 We'll talk about this in more detail, 76 00:02:59,190 --> 00:03:01,500 but again, it's up to the commanders and senior NCOs 77 00:03:01,500 --> 00:03:04,710 to make the right calls relevant to their situation, 78 00:03:04,710 --> 00:03:06,590 to ensure that we protect our people 79 00:03:06,590 --> 00:03:09,640 while at the same time maintaining mission readiness. 80 00:03:09,640 --> 00:03:10,730 I'm gonna turn over now to the 81 00:03:10,730 --> 00:03:13,131 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Milley, 82 00:03:13,131 --> 00:03:14,000 but I wanna reinforce again. 83 00:03:14,000 --> 00:03:15,710 This is a difficult time for our nation. 84 00:03:15,710 --> 00:03:16,920 It's a great challenge, 85 00:03:16,920 --> 00:03:18,360 but like with all other things in the past, 86 00:03:18,360 --> 00:03:21,480 I'm confident, fully confident that we'll come through this 87 00:03:21,480 --> 00:03:23,200 and that we'll be stronger on the back end. 88 00:03:23,200 --> 00:03:25,118 So thank you all very much. 89 00:03:25,118 --> 00:03:26,673 - Thanks Secretary for those words 90 00:03:26,673 --> 00:03:29,266 and we look forward to the questions, Alyssa, 91 00:03:29,266 --> 00:03:31,470 from the family members and the troops that are out there, 92 00:03:31,470 --> 00:03:33,920 but let me just say a couple things up front. 93 00:03:33,920 --> 00:03:35,800 First of all, this is not the first challenge 94 00:03:35,800 --> 00:03:38,039 the United States has ever faced. 95 00:03:38,039 --> 00:03:40,870 This is not the first war we've ever been in. 96 00:03:40,870 --> 00:03:42,850 The President of the United States clearly said 97 00:03:42,850 --> 00:03:44,840 we're at war, this time with an invisible enemy, 98 00:03:44,840 --> 00:03:46,541 a war called a virus. 99 00:03:46,541 --> 00:03:48,910 And we, the United States military, are gonna do our part 100 00:03:48,910 --> 00:03:50,320 to protect the American people, 101 00:03:50,320 --> 00:03:52,340 and we're gonna protect our force at the same time, 102 00:03:52,340 --> 00:03:55,270 and we are going to continue with our other regular missions 103 00:03:55,270 --> 00:03:57,870 that we do in order to protect the American people. 104 00:03:57,870 --> 00:03:59,470 The one thing I would say 105 00:03:59,470 --> 00:04:01,380 that is critically important here, I think. 106 00:04:01,380 --> 00:04:02,970 There's a lot of anxiety. 107 00:04:02,970 --> 00:04:04,310 There's a lot of uncertainty out there, 108 00:04:04,310 --> 00:04:05,870 on everything from PCS moves, 109 00:04:05,870 --> 00:04:08,260 to exactly what do we do in PT formations, 110 00:04:08,260 --> 00:04:11,110 and how far a distance we have maintain, et cetera. 111 00:04:11,110 --> 00:04:12,430 A lot of information's been put out, 112 00:04:12,430 --> 00:04:14,500 as the Secretary just said, by the CDC. 113 00:04:14,500 --> 00:04:16,170 A lot of information through chains of command. 114 00:04:16,170 --> 00:04:18,465 The President's put out his 15 days, et cetera. 115 00:04:18,465 --> 00:04:20,990 What we really need to make sure that all of us 116 00:04:20,990 --> 00:04:23,300 collectively do is listen closely 117 00:04:23,300 --> 00:04:24,995 and rely on the chain of command. 118 00:04:24,995 --> 00:04:27,320 We will get through this through solid leadership, 119 00:04:27,320 --> 00:04:30,200 care for our troops, and keeping focus on the mission, 120 00:04:30,200 --> 00:04:32,520 and together, shoulder to shoulder, we'll do that. 121 00:04:32,520 --> 00:04:34,890 So, I would encourage everybody to pay close attention 122 00:04:34,890 --> 00:04:38,140 to the chains of command, whether you're in Europe or Asia, 123 00:04:38,140 --> 00:04:40,000 or here in CONUS. 124 00:04:40,000 --> 00:04:41,490 Wherever you are in the world, 125 00:04:41,490 --> 00:04:43,010 pay close attention to the chain of command 126 00:04:43,010 --> 00:04:45,850 and the guidance that their putting out, and adhere to it. 127 00:04:45,850 --> 00:04:47,345 And then we'll get through this together 128 00:04:47,345 --> 00:04:49,300 and we'll defeat this virus once and for all. 129 00:04:49,300 --> 00:04:51,327 And on that note, I'd like to turn it over 130 00:04:51,327 --> 00:04:55,290 to the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman, 131 00:04:55,290 --> 00:04:58,730 the senior enlisted soldier, sailor, airman, marine 132 00:04:58,730 --> 00:05:00,802 in the entire U.S. military. 133 00:05:00,802 --> 00:05:04,330 What I call Sergeant Major Colon-Lopez, 134 00:05:04,330 --> 00:05:07,580 but he goes by SEAC, and as you all know, 135 00:05:07,580 --> 00:05:09,790 he's a Master Chief in the Air Force. 136 00:05:09,790 --> 00:05:11,850 He's an extraordinary airman of the first class 137 00:05:11,850 --> 00:05:14,020 and I'd like to turn it over to CZ. 138 00:05:14,020 --> 00:05:15,496 - Thank you Chairman. 139 00:05:15,496 --> 00:05:16,988 Thank you Mr. Secretary. 140 00:05:16,988 --> 00:05:19,330 First of all, thank you for being here this morning 141 00:05:19,330 --> 00:05:22,570 and I just wanna reemphasize what our leaders are saying, 142 00:05:22,570 --> 00:05:25,430 and that our primary mission is to restoring peace 143 00:05:25,430 --> 00:05:27,829 in time of chaos, and this is no different. 144 00:05:27,829 --> 00:05:30,217 Our mission is clearly understood 145 00:05:30,217 --> 00:05:32,520 and it is a no fail mission. 146 00:05:32,520 --> 00:05:35,844 So, we need to remain adaptable, versatile, 147 00:05:35,844 --> 00:05:38,200 and flexible enough to go ahead 148 00:05:38,200 --> 00:05:40,910 and deal with this challenge, as we're doing right now. 149 00:05:40,910 --> 00:05:43,230 But make no mistake that our number one priority 150 00:05:43,230 --> 00:05:45,350 is protecting you and your families, 151 00:05:45,350 --> 00:05:48,270 and that is why we're conducting this town hall here today. 152 00:05:48,270 --> 00:05:51,640 So, at this time, I would like to open up the floor 153 00:05:51,640 --> 00:05:54,600 for questions and we're here to take them. 154 00:05:54,600 --> 00:05:55,997 - Excellent, thank you gentlemen. 155 00:05:55,997 --> 00:05:57,480 The first question to the Secretary, 156 00:05:57,480 --> 00:06:00,730 but I welcome the Chairman and the SEAC to chime in as well. 157 00:06:00,730 --> 00:06:02,817 How is the global response to COVID-19 158 00:06:02,817 --> 00:06:05,580 changing our security environment? 159 00:06:05,580 --> 00:06:07,570 Will we as a military remain prepared 160 00:06:07,570 --> 00:06:09,450 to ensure the defense of our nation? 161 00:06:09,450 --> 00:06:12,200 What are the impact to daily operations? 162 00:06:12,200 --> 00:06:13,570 - Well I'll take your second question first. 163 00:06:13,570 --> 00:06:16,030 I'm fully confident that we will remain prepared 164 00:06:16,030 --> 00:06:17,210 to conduct all of our missions. 165 00:06:17,210 --> 00:06:18,920 I've spoken to our commanders 166 00:06:18,920 --> 00:06:20,340 and I've spoken to our service chiefs 167 00:06:20,340 --> 00:06:21,330 and service secretaries. 168 00:06:21,330 --> 00:06:22,920 They are taking all precautionary measures 169 00:06:22,920 --> 00:06:25,460 to make sure that we maintain those mission capabilities. 170 00:06:25,460 --> 00:06:27,310 Recall, that's priority number two, 171 00:06:27,310 --> 00:06:28,420 behind priority number one, 172 00:06:28,420 --> 00:06:30,560 which is protecting our force, our people, 173 00:06:30,560 --> 00:06:32,140 and our dependents. 174 00:06:32,140 --> 00:06:34,840 So I'm very confident that we'll maintain mission readiness. 175 00:06:34,840 --> 00:06:38,880 As this grows in scale and scope, this spread of the virus, 176 00:06:38,880 --> 00:06:39,916 we're gonna have to take, 177 00:06:39,916 --> 00:06:43,000 be very careful and take prudent measures 178 00:06:43,000 --> 00:06:44,520 to ensure we maintain that readiness 179 00:06:44,520 --> 00:06:46,060 because it will become more challenging, 180 00:06:46,060 --> 00:06:48,000 but I'm confident if we take all the right procedures, 181 00:06:48,000 --> 00:06:48,970 we will do that. 182 00:06:48,970 --> 00:06:50,300 Now, with regard to your first question, 183 00:06:50,300 --> 00:06:52,500 how does this change the international security environment? 184 00:06:52,500 --> 00:06:53,810 Clearly what we see are countries 185 00:06:53,810 --> 00:06:55,390 are turning inward right now. 186 00:06:55,390 --> 00:06:58,860 They're looking very closely at their own internal affairs, 187 00:06:58,860 --> 00:07:01,720 how they treat and deal with the coronavirus that's spread. 188 00:07:01,720 --> 00:07:04,310 Some countries have been far more affected than others. 189 00:07:04,310 --> 00:07:06,810 We've had countries such as Italy, a close ally of ours, 190 00:07:06,810 --> 00:07:09,890 which has probably suffered the most so far. 191 00:07:09,890 --> 00:07:12,050 But then, we've had adversaries, like Iran, 192 00:07:12,050 --> 00:07:13,930 who is also suffering very badly, 193 00:07:13,930 --> 00:07:15,630 and important to note that we've reached out 194 00:07:15,630 --> 00:07:17,620 to try and offer them aid and support. 195 00:07:17,620 --> 00:07:20,350 So each country is dealing with this differently. 196 00:07:20,350 --> 00:07:21,930 We all face a similar challenge. 197 00:07:21,930 --> 00:07:24,420 It's just a matter of time before each gets affected. 198 00:07:24,420 --> 00:07:26,760 And we have a good example of another ally of ours, 199 00:07:26,760 --> 00:07:29,360 the Republic of Korea, who seems to have taken 200 00:07:29,360 --> 00:07:31,150 a lot of smart measures early, 201 00:07:31,150 --> 00:07:32,630 and they appear to be on the back side 202 00:07:32,630 --> 00:07:35,380 of this coronavirus spread at this point in time. 203 00:07:35,380 --> 00:07:36,900 - [Alyssa] Mr. Chairman, anything to add 204 00:07:36,900 --> 00:07:39,570 on the potential impacts to readiness? 205 00:07:39,570 --> 00:07:42,610 - Yeah, in addition to the impacts on readiness, 206 00:07:42,610 --> 00:07:44,550 things like exercises, et cetera, 207 00:07:44,550 --> 00:07:47,100 I think overall for the U.S. military, 208 00:07:47,100 --> 00:07:50,280 I think we will have moderate to low levels 209 00:07:50,280 --> 00:07:53,550 of readiness impacts, only because the numbers, 210 00:07:53,550 --> 00:07:55,060 at least the numbers so far. 211 00:07:55,060 --> 00:07:56,240 This could change. 212 00:07:56,240 --> 00:07:58,400 We'll have to assess it and we are assessing it frequently. 213 00:07:58,400 --> 00:07:59,820 There will be an impact to readiness, 214 00:07:59,820 --> 00:08:01,900 but I think it will be on the lower end 215 00:08:01,900 --> 00:08:03,070 as opposed to significant. 216 00:08:03,070 --> 00:08:04,840 With respect to the question about 217 00:08:04,840 --> 00:08:06,293 the broader security environment, 218 00:08:06,293 --> 00:08:09,090 this is affecting different countries differently 219 00:08:09,090 --> 00:08:11,440 and it depends on the level of rigor and robustness 220 00:08:11,440 --> 00:08:14,610 of the medical facilities' capacity inside each country. 221 00:08:14,610 --> 00:08:15,700 It could lead, in some cases, 222 00:08:15,700 --> 00:08:17,770 it could lead to social breakdowns. 223 00:08:17,770 --> 00:08:21,470 It could lead to political chaos in certain countries. 224 00:08:21,470 --> 00:08:22,550 We have to be attune to that. 225 00:08:22,550 --> 00:08:23,820 There could be resource shortages. 226 00:08:23,820 --> 00:08:26,230 Obviously, we see that with masks, and gloves, 227 00:08:26,230 --> 00:08:27,960 and ventilators, and so on so forth, 228 00:08:27,960 --> 00:08:29,930 hospital capacities, and so on. 229 00:08:29,930 --> 00:08:31,730 These can have severe internal consequences 230 00:08:31,730 --> 00:08:33,954 to certain countries that go well beyond 231 00:08:33,954 --> 00:08:37,810 the immediate medical issue, I think is worthwhile. 232 00:08:37,810 --> 00:08:39,198 The other key piece here, 233 00:08:39,198 --> 00:08:42,670 and I know that it's front and center in everybody's mind 234 00:08:42,670 --> 00:08:44,300 is the economic impacts, 235 00:08:44,300 --> 00:08:47,252 which will have secondary security impacts 236 00:08:47,252 --> 00:08:50,950 if there's a global recession, a global depression, 237 00:08:50,950 --> 00:08:51,964 those sorts of things. 238 00:08:51,964 --> 00:08:54,180 I'm not an expert in the economy, 239 00:08:54,180 --> 00:08:57,000 but there are second and third order effects to all of that. 240 00:08:57,000 --> 00:08:58,480 So it's very, very important, again, 241 00:08:58,480 --> 00:09:01,480 that we do what the professionals are telling us to do, 242 00:09:01,480 --> 00:09:03,110 which is flatten that curve. 243 00:09:03,110 --> 00:09:05,550 Take all the appropriate measures for us in the military, 244 00:09:05,550 --> 00:09:08,980 but also in the nation, to do our part, so to speak, 245 00:09:08,980 --> 00:09:11,300 in order to reduce the probability 246 00:09:11,300 --> 00:09:13,280 and to mitigate the impact of this coronavirus 247 00:09:13,280 --> 00:09:15,350 globally and nationally. 248 00:09:15,350 --> 00:09:17,090 - So I just wanna follow up on something the Chairman said. 249 00:09:17,090 --> 00:09:18,440 It's very important for us as leaders, 250 00:09:18,440 --> 00:09:20,570 and I'd say this to all the leaders out there, 251 00:09:20,570 --> 00:09:23,480 that as the coronavirus hits different countries differently 252 00:09:23,480 --> 00:09:24,520 and as they react differently, 253 00:09:24,520 --> 00:09:27,330 over time it may present challenges for us. 254 00:09:27,330 --> 00:09:30,190 With allies, it may be incumbent upon us to help them 255 00:09:30,190 --> 00:09:32,949 with our own supplies, our own doctors, our own assistance. 256 00:09:32,949 --> 00:09:36,530 With potential adversaries, it may cause them to act out 257 00:09:36,530 --> 00:09:38,470 in different ways and in ways that impact 258 00:09:38,470 --> 00:09:40,530 our security posture, our readiness. 259 00:09:40,530 --> 00:09:41,740 So we need to be very conscious 260 00:09:41,740 --> 00:09:45,320 and be on the lookout for that as this unfolds. 261 00:09:45,320 --> 00:09:47,800 So, we've gotta deal with the problem right in front of us, 262 00:09:47,800 --> 00:09:49,610 which is taking care of our people, 263 00:09:49,610 --> 00:09:50,950 maintaining our mission readiness, 264 00:09:50,950 --> 00:09:53,060 but we have to be looking beyond that to see 265 00:09:53,060 --> 00:09:56,277 how it may play out and how it may affect our mission. 266 00:09:56,277 --> 00:09:58,330 - And the Secretary's in close coordination 267 00:09:58,330 --> 00:09:59,780 with the Ministers of Defence. 268 00:09:59,780 --> 00:10:01,977 I'm in close coordination with the ChoDs 269 00:10:01,977 --> 00:10:03,400 and the combatant commanders as well. 270 00:10:03,400 --> 00:10:06,883 So there's a allied and partner effort globally, 271 00:10:06,883 --> 00:10:09,847 beyond what you're seeing just in CONUS. 272 00:10:09,847 --> 00:10:11,380 - And the Chairman raised a good point 273 00:10:11,380 --> 00:10:12,610 about medical supplies. 274 00:10:12,610 --> 00:10:15,297 How prepared is DoD to take care of its people? 275 00:10:15,297 --> 00:10:17,410 Does it have enough medical supplies 276 00:10:17,410 --> 00:10:18,970 to get us through this crisis? 277 00:10:18,970 --> 00:10:19,803 - Yeah we do. 278 00:10:19,803 --> 00:10:21,770 We have a strategic stockpile of medical supplies. 279 00:10:21,770 --> 00:10:24,023 We have enough that we're able to offer 280 00:10:24,023 --> 00:10:26,760 to the interagency team a supply of masks, 281 00:10:26,760 --> 00:10:29,310 and gowns, and ventilators, and things like that. 282 00:10:29,310 --> 00:10:31,420 Our MTFs, our medical treatment facilities, 283 00:10:31,420 --> 00:10:33,446 and our dental facilities are fully staffed 284 00:10:33,446 --> 00:10:35,960 and have sufficient supplies and medical equipment. 285 00:10:35,960 --> 00:10:38,735 Now, like everybody else, we're gonna face shortages 286 00:10:38,735 --> 00:10:41,250 with regard to some of the PPE 287 00:10:41,250 --> 00:10:44,520 until the private sector industry can pick up the slack. 288 00:10:44,520 --> 00:10:46,110 And so, we're looking at that very carefully. 289 00:10:46,110 --> 00:10:49,110 We will soon be coming out with a policy on elective surgery 290 00:10:49,110 --> 00:10:52,440 that will limit elective surgery so that we can both 291 00:10:52,440 --> 00:10:54,930 free up doctors and nurses and other medical professionals, 292 00:10:54,930 --> 00:10:57,494 but at the same time, it'll increase the supply 293 00:10:57,494 --> 00:11:00,880 by reducing the demand on personal protective equipment. 294 00:11:00,880 --> 00:11:03,420 And so, once the private sector ramps up and we can do that, 295 00:11:03,420 --> 00:11:04,940 we'll be able to readjust our policies 296 00:11:04,940 --> 00:11:06,380 and get back to normal. 297 00:11:06,380 --> 00:11:08,462 But in the meantime, I'm confident we have enough. 298 00:11:08,462 --> 00:11:11,126 We wanna ensure that we're able to share 299 00:11:11,126 --> 00:11:14,110 to help our fellow Americans, and then over time, 300 00:11:14,110 --> 00:11:17,433 we'll continue to manage our medical capabilities. 301 00:11:17,433 --> 00:11:20,457 - Great, and now turning to the SEAC, a question for you. 302 00:11:20,457 --> 00:11:22,972 Why are mass formations still okay? 303 00:11:22,972 --> 00:11:26,170 If we are social distancing and can only be in small groups, 304 00:11:26,170 --> 00:11:28,970 why are we still having unit formations? 305 00:11:28,970 --> 00:11:32,840 - Well, on that subject, we have to revert back 306 00:11:32,840 --> 00:11:34,280 to the trust in the chain of command, 307 00:11:34,280 --> 00:11:37,060 the people closest to the troops out there in the field. 308 00:11:37,060 --> 00:11:39,080 And we're trusting local commanders 309 00:11:39,080 --> 00:11:40,470 and their medical professionals 310 00:11:40,470 --> 00:11:41,637 to go ahead and provide the information 311 00:11:41,637 --> 00:11:44,430 and take the prudent steps to make sure that they contain 312 00:11:44,430 --> 00:11:47,410 or prevent the spread of the disease. 313 00:11:47,410 --> 00:11:49,189 But also, we cannot forget 314 00:11:49,189 --> 00:11:51,980 that there's a mission requirement for a lot of these units 315 00:11:51,980 --> 00:11:53,960 and we expect those sergeants, the gunneys, 316 00:11:53,960 --> 00:11:56,452 the first sergeants, the commanders, the captains 317 00:11:56,452 --> 00:11:59,040 to be able to make those decisions on the field 318 00:11:59,040 --> 00:12:01,563 to be able to maintain our combat effectiveness. 319 00:12:01,563 --> 00:12:02,396 - [Alyssa] Excellent. 320 00:12:02,396 --> 00:12:04,020 - So look, I wanna foot stomp what the SEAC says. 321 00:12:04,020 --> 00:12:07,162 We have a mission and that is maintain that mission, 322 00:12:07,162 --> 00:12:09,005 maintain that mission readiness, 323 00:12:09,005 --> 00:12:10,929 and that includes physical fitness. 324 00:12:10,929 --> 00:12:13,230 As I said to the media just yesterday, 325 00:12:13,230 --> 00:12:16,180 look you can't get social distancing in a submarine 326 00:12:16,180 --> 00:12:17,810 or even in a tank, right? 327 00:12:17,810 --> 00:12:18,813 I've been in both. 328 00:12:18,813 --> 00:12:21,780 But you take prudent measures as best you can, 329 00:12:21,780 --> 00:12:23,223 given the situation you're in, 330 00:12:23,223 --> 00:12:25,160 given your mission and whatnot. 331 00:12:25,160 --> 00:12:28,040 And that's when we call upon commanders and senior NCOs 332 00:12:28,040 --> 00:12:30,472 at all levels to do, assess their situation, 333 00:12:30,472 --> 00:12:34,190 and if you can avoid putting a large number of people 334 00:12:34,190 --> 00:12:35,350 in small rooms, you should do it. 335 00:12:35,350 --> 00:12:37,711 Hold your meeting outside or maybe meet in smaller groups. 336 00:12:37,711 --> 00:12:40,760 Get that social distancing as best you can. 337 00:12:40,760 --> 00:12:42,340 Follow the CDC guidelines. 338 00:12:42,340 --> 00:12:44,010 That is good guidance for us to help protect 339 00:12:44,010 --> 00:12:47,020 not just the force, but our fellow Americans as well. 340 00:12:47,020 --> 00:12:50,557 And if you're a young NCO and you see something 341 00:12:50,557 --> 00:12:52,150 that doesn't make sense, 342 00:12:52,150 --> 00:12:53,940 or if you're a young officer and you see something 343 00:12:53,940 --> 00:12:55,300 that doesn't make sense, 344 00:12:55,300 --> 00:12:56,837 raise it privately with your chain of command and say, 345 00:12:56,837 --> 00:12:59,410 "Hey, maybe we should do this differently next time." 346 00:12:59,410 --> 00:13:00,810 Help remind your leaders. 347 00:13:00,810 --> 00:13:02,440 Help protect one another. 348 00:13:02,440 --> 00:13:06,010 Help each other get through this by remind each other 349 00:13:06,010 --> 00:13:07,140 about social distancing, 350 00:13:07,140 --> 00:13:09,260 about different ways to perform the mission 351 00:13:09,260 --> 00:13:11,010 and accomplish it while still achieving 352 00:13:11,010 --> 00:13:14,152 those same guidelines. 353 00:13:14,152 --> 00:13:17,044 - Absolutely, now another question. 354 00:13:17,044 --> 00:13:19,190 What do you think about how NORTHCOM 355 00:13:19,190 --> 00:13:21,560 is working with its interagency partners 356 00:13:21,560 --> 00:13:23,930 to counter the COVID pandemic? 357 00:13:23,930 --> 00:13:25,760 - Well I think NORTHCOM is doing a fine job, 358 00:13:25,760 --> 00:13:26,870 but I'll turn it over to the Chairman 359 00:13:26,870 --> 00:13:28,870 'cause he's been working much more closely 360 00:13:28,870 --> 00:13:29,703 with General O'Shaughnessy. 361 00:13:29,703 --> 00:13:34,460 - Yeah, so let me, for everyone, as you would imagine, 362 00:13:34,460 --> 00:13:36,570 the United States military is structured 363 00:13:36,570 --> 00:13:37,700 and we have a chain of command, 364 00:13:37,700 --> 00:13:40,120 and I do wanna kinda lay that out for everyone, 365 00:13:40,120 --> 00:13:41,850 just take a minute or two. 366 00:13:41,850 --> 00:13:43,370 So at the top, you got the President. 367 00:13:43,370 --> 00:13:46,590 The Vice President is leading this coronavirus task force. 368 00:13:46,590 --> 00:13:49,648 We have to representatives, we the Department of Defense, 369 00:13:49,648 --> 00:13:50,960 have two people that routinely interact with that. 370 00:13:50,960 --> 00:13:53,120 That is the Deputy Secretary of Defense 371 00:13:53,120 --> 00:13:55,028 and the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. 372 00:13:55,028 --> 00:13:57,010 Within the building itself, 373 00:13:57,010 --> 00:13:59,970 we've got a crisis management team set up. 374 00:13:59,970 --> 00:14:02,280 That is lead by a two star general officer 375 00:14:02,280 --> 00:14:03,113 on the joint staff, 376 00:14:03,113 --> 00:14:05,900 and then everyone is matrixed into that thing, 377 00:14:05,900 --> 00:14:07,970 from all the services, et cetera. 378 00:14:07,970 --> 00:14:11,940 And then NORTHCOM implements the policy guidance 379 00:14:11,940 --> 00:14:13,768 and the directives that the Secretary of Defense 380 00:14:13,768 --> 00:14:16,410 has put in place so far, 381 00:14:16,410 --> 00:14:18,978 with the first execute order that went out 382 00:14:18,978 --> 00:14:21,340 as much as two months ago 383 00:14:21,340 --> 00:14:23,960 for beginning planning and preparation. 384 00:14:23,960 --> 00:14:27,790 So, General O'Shaughnessy, just like we deal with hurricanes 385 00:14:27,790 --> 00:14:29,520 and wildfires, and so on and so forth, 386 00:14:29,520 --> 00:14:32,730 General O'Shaughnessy has a structure that is standing up, 387 00:14:32,730 --> 00:14:35,960 has been set up, and is continuing to stand up and expand. 388 00:14:35,960 --> 00:14:38,380 They are linked in with FEMA. 389 00:14:38,380 --> 00:14:41,800 So the 10 FEMA regions in CONUS, 390 00:14:41,800 --> 00:14:44,040 they have command and control cells with each of them. 391 00:14:44,040 --> 00:14:47,174 He has a command and control cell with HHS and FEMA, 392 00:14:47,174 --> 00:14:49,950 and then he has subordinate organizations. 393 00:14:49,950 --> 00:14:53,250 So he's got a maritime component commander, for example. 394 00:14:53,250 --> 00:14:55,110 They are in charge of the Mercy and the Comfort, 395 00:14:55,110 --> 00:14:57,210 who are going to various cities. 396 00:14:57,210 --> 00:14:58,760 You've got a land component commander, 397 00:14:58,760 --> 00:15:00,440 Lieutenant General Laura Richardson. 398 00:15:00,440 --> 00:15:01,897 She'll be in charge of the 10 FEMA regions 399 00:15:01,897 --> 00:15:04,570 and the ground force response with the hospitals, et cetera. 400 00:15:04,570 --> 00:15:05,720 You got an air component commander, 401 00:15:05,720 --> 00:15:06,553 who is gonna be responsible 402 00:15:06,553 --> 00:15:08,530 for transporting patients around, and so on. 403 00:15:08,530 --> 00:15:11,210 So, he's got a ready made structure 404 00:15:11,210 --> 00:15:13,058 and his basic function is to protect 405 00:15:13,058 --> 00:15:15,960 the continental United States against any and all threats. 406 00:15:15,960 --> 00:15:18,740 Coronavirus is just this threat, and he will do that, 407 00:15:18,740 --> 00:15:19,720 and he's doing a great job at it. 408 00:15:19,720 --> 00:15:21,420 And in fact, I think, if I'm not mistaken, 409 00:15:21,420 --> 00:15:23,340 he or his team is gonna have a press conference 410 00:15:23,340 --> 00:15:25,790 later today or tomorrow to lay some of that out. 411 00:15:25,790 --> 00:15:28,110 But, O'Shaughnessy is very, very squared away 412 00:15:28,110 --> 00:15:30,500 and NORTHCOM's a very capable organization. 413 00:15:30,500 --> 00:15:33,147 - Fantastic, and related to this response effort. 414 00:15:33,147 --> 00:15:34,600 Are you concerned at all 415 00:15:34,600 --> 00:15:37,410 about the spread of disinformation and misinformation, 416 00:15:37,410 --> 00:15:39,780 specifically with regard to the U.S. military, 417 00:15:39,780 --> 00:15:42,090 but also just more broadly about response efforts? 418 00:15:42,090 --> 00:15:43,950 - Absolutely, look we have multiple sources 419 00:15:43,950 --> 00:15:45,100 of disinformation out there. 420 00:15:45,100 --> 00:15:46,820 Some of it is just people are concerned, 421 00:15:46,820 --> 00:15:48,230 and scared and anxious, 422 00:15:48,230 --> 00:15:52,480 and we wanna do our best to dispel bad rumors and whatnot. 423 00:15:52,480 --> 00:15:54,383 And then we probably have external actors, 424 00:15:54,383 --> 00:15:58,140 countries who want to sow chaos with the United States, 425 00:15:58,140 --> 00:16:02,560 or injecting some of this into the ecosystem, if you will. 426 00:16:02,560 --> 00:16:04,010 So, look let me reassure you. 427 00:16:04,010 --> 00:16:06,878 There's been no talk whatsoever of Marshall law. 428 00:16:06,878 --> 00:16:10,110 There's been no talk whatsoever of mass quarantines 429 00:16:10,110 --> 00:16:12,920 of the United States or any of that other nonsense 430 00:16:12,920 --> 00:16:13,753 that is out there. 431 00:16:13,753 --> 00:16:14,870 So, one of the things we're gonna do 432 00:16:14,870 --> 00:16:16,460 is we're gonna set up in the next day or so 433 00:16:16,460 --> 00:16:18,996 a page on our DoD website. 434 00:16:18,996 --> 00:16:22,005 We'll call it mythbusters right now, 435 00:16:22,005 --> 00:16:24,130 that will call kind of look at what's out there 436 00:16:24,130 --> 00:16:25,950 in terms of the rumor mill, 437 00:16:25,950 --> 00:16:28,480 and we'll be able to answer those, and knock them down, 438 00:16:28,480 --> 00:16:30,840 and keep them posted up there so people can refer 439 00:16:30,840 --> 00:16:32,370 to that page as to what's happening. 440 00:16:32,370 --> 00:16:35,160 And if you have ideas, we'll try and find a way on that page 441 00:16:35,160 --> 00:16:36,227 for folks to write in and say, 442 00:16:36,227 --> 00:16:37,537 "Hey, I've heard this. 443 00:16:37,537 --> 00:16:39,070 "Is there any truth to that?" 444 00:16:39,070 --> 00:16:40,814 So that we can knock these myths down. 445 00:16:40,814 --> 00:16:44,210 In a crisis like this, the most important thing you can do, 446 00:16:44,210 --> 00:16:46,230 that we can do, which is why we're here this morning, 447 00:16:46,230 --> 00:16:47,840 is to put information out constantly, 448 00:16:47,840 --> 00:16:49,510 to be very transparent. 449 00:16:49,510 --> 00:16:51,590 To tell everybody what we're doing, why we're doing it, 450 00:16:51,590 --> 00:16:52,880 how we're doing it, et cetera. 451 00:16:52,880 --> 00:16:54,530 But at the same time, the converse of that 452 00:16:54,530 --> 00:16:57,830 is knocking down rumors, knocking down myths, 453 00:16:57,830 --> 00:16:59,340 knocking down disinformation, 454 00:16:59,340 --> 00:17:03,344 all those things that cause further churn and concern. 455 00:17:03,344 --> 00:17:06,476 - Now I understand the novel nature of coronavirus 456 00:17:06,476 --> 00:17:07,902 makes it hard to predict, 457 00:17:07,902 --> 00:17:10,526 but are you able to give any insight into how long 458 00:17:10,526 --> 00:17:12,917 you think that this outbreak may last 459 00:17:12,917 --> 00:17:16,130 and how long the military's prepared to address it? 460 00:17:16,130 --> 00:17:16,963 Is it 30 days? 461 00:17:16,963 --> 00:17:18,840 Is it 60, 90? 462 00:17:18,840 --> 00:17:20,420 - Well, we have to be prepared to address it 463 00:17:20,420 --> 00:17:21,800 as long as the country needs us. 464 00:17:21,800 --> 00:17:25,830 At this point in time, if you look at some of the reporting 465 00:17:25,830 --> 00:17:26,910 we've seen over the weekend, 466 00:17:26,910 --> 00:17:29,680 I think one of the President's closest advisors 467 00:17:29,680 --> 00:17:33,064 said that looking at how China and Korea 468 00:17:33,064 --> 00:17:35,372 have confronted this virus, 469 00:17:35,372 --> 00:17:37,942 it looks like it has a eight to 10 week period 470 00:17:37,942 --> 00:17:40,760 from beginning to cresting to end, 471 00:17:40,760 --> 00:17:41,940 or at least the back slope. 472 00:17:41,940 --> 00:17:44,310 So, you're looking probably at least that long. 473 00:17:44,310 --> 00:17:46,830 I think we need to plan for this to be a few months long, 474 00:17:46,830 --> 00:17:49,400 at least, and we're taking all precautionary measures 475 00:17:49,400 --> 00:17:52,000 to do that, to be in it for the long haul. 476 00:17:52,000 --> 00:17:54,330 But look, we're gonna support the American people. 477 00:17:54,330 --> 00:17:55,860 We're gonna continue to take actions 478 00:17:55,860 --> 00:17:57,510 and take care of our own people 479 00:17:57,510 --> 00:17:58,870 with regard to those three priorities 480 00:17:58,870 --> 00:18:01,780 I outlined at the beginning, as long as need be. 481 00:18:01,780 --> 00:18:03,160 Chairman, I don't know if you wanna add to that. 482 00:18:03,160 --> 00:18:05,429 - Yeah, I mean, scientifically, 483 00:18:05,429 --> 00:18:08,520 and certainly none of us are scientists on coronavirus, 484 00:18:08,520 --> 00:18:10,130 but all the reports we've read 485 00:18:10,130 --> 00:18:11,950 indicate exactly the Secretary said. 486 00:18:11,950 --> 00:18:13,880 You're looking at eight to 10, maybe 12 weeks, 487 00:18:13,880 --> 00:18:15,280 call it three months, 488 00:18:15,280 --> 00:18:18,480 based on what we know from other countries, 489 00:18:18,480 --> 00:18:22,570 China, Hong Kong, South Korea, et cetera. 490 00:18:22,570 --> 00:18:23,913 That may or may not apply to the United States. 491 00:18:23,913 --> 00:18:26,420 That may or may not apply to other different countries, 492 00:18:26,420 --> 00:18:29,120 different circumstances, but we'll see. 493 00:18:29,120 --> 00:18:31,510 Some of that depends on what we do as a nation 494 00:18:31,510 --> 00:18:34,780 to mitigate it, to flatten that curve, so to speak. 495 00:18:34,780 --> 00:18:36,596 But we, the United States military, 496 00:18:36,596 --> 00:18:39,509 we're gonna do this as long as the mission takes. 497 00:18:39,509 --> 00:18:41,560 That's what the President's asked. 498 00:18:41,560 --> 00:18:42,393 That's what the Secretary's asked. 499 00:18:42,393 --> 00:18:44,060 And we in uniform are gonna do whatever it takes 500 00:18:44,060 --> 00:18:45,860 to protect the American people. 501 00:18:45,860 --> 00:18:47,040 - Now, the first line of effort 502 00:18:47,040 --> 00:18:48,560 is obviously protecting our people. 503 00:18:48,560 --> 00:18:50,150 So we're gonna go to a couple of questions, 504 00:18:50,150 --> 00:18:52,442 just specific to the force and family. 505 00:18:52,442 --> 00:18:56,030 First for the Chairman, but I welcome anyone's input. 506 00:18:56,030 --> 00:18:57,760 Chairman, there's a lot of concern about moves. 507 00:18:57,760 --> 00:19:00,560 The question is I'm supposed to PCS soon. 508 00:19:00,560 --> 00:19:01,680 Will they cancel my orders? 509 00:19:01,680 --> 00:19:03,617 Do I still have to sign out of housing 510 00:19:03,617 --> 00:19:05,550 or will I get extended TLA? 511 00:19:05,550 --> 00:19:08,877 What benefits will be available to help offset costs? 512 00:19:08,877 --> 00:19:11,350 - Actually, there's quite a few questions in there, Alyssa. 513 00:19:11,350 --> 00:19:13,466 So, let me try to do this from memory. 514 00:19:13,466 --> 00:19:16,530 So first, the Secretary's put out guidance, 515 00:19:16,530 --> 00:19:18,600 or policy guidance, the Department of Defense has, 516 00:19:18,600 --> 00:19:20,820 to stop move for 60 days, 517 00:19:20,820 --> 00:19:22,333 and that takes us up through, 518 00:19:22,333 --> 00:19:24,390 I think it was eight or 10 of May, the middle of May. 519 00:19:24,390 --> 00:19:25,960 And what does that mean? 520 00:19:25,960 --> 00:19:29,210 That means all PCS moves, all unit moves, 521 00:19:29,210 --> 00:19:33,370 all moves are stopped unless a waiver is granted, 522 00:19:33,370 --> 00:19:34,460 an exception is granted, 523 00:19:34,460 --> 00:19:37,080 and it has to fall into one of three categories. 524 00:19:37,080 --> 00:19:38,830 One, mission essential; 525 00:19:38,830 --> 00:19:42,050 second is some humanitarian reason; 526 00:19:42,050 --> 00:19:43,890 and third is undue duress or hardship 527 00:19:43,890 --> 00:19:48,570 on a particular family or a soldier or service member. 528 00:19:48,570 --> 00:19:50,250 So, who makes that decision? 529 00:19:50,250 --> 00:19:51,750 The Secretary has delegated that 530 00:19:51,750 --> 00:19:54,617 to the combatant commanders, the service secretaries, 531 00:19:54,617 --> 00:19:57,730 and the defense agency heads. 532 00:19:57,730 --> 00:19:59,860 And they are then further authorized 533 00:19:59,860 --> 00:20:02,320 to delegate that decision to the lowest level 534 00:20:02,320 --> 00:20:06,640 one star or SES equivalent in their chain as they fit. 535 00:20:06,640 --> 00:20:08,870 So that person, one star, two star, three star, 536 00:20:08,870 --> 00:20:10,680 or four star, can determine if it's mission essential, 537 00:20:10,680 --> 00:20:13,855 humanitarian, or undue duress or hardship. 538 00:20:13,855 --> 00:20:16,060 So in this particular case, PCS, 539 00:20:16,060 --> 00:20:17,600 if it's just a normal PCS, 540 00:20:17,600 --> 00:20:19,300 doesn't fall into one of those three bins. 541 00:20:19,300 --> 00:20:21,980 You're gonna be on freeze, hold, completely 542 00:20:21,980 --> 00:20:24,540 for about 60 days, and then we'll reevaluate. 543 00:20:24,540 --> 00:20:26,240 If in fact this is a 90 day curve 544 00:20:26,240 --> 00:20:28,610 and things seem to be getting better and settling out, 545 00:20:28,610 --> 00:20:31,460 then we'll prioritize those that are in the queue 546 00:20:31,460 --> 00:20:33,420 and we'll get them moving, the orders moving. 547 00:20:33,420 --> 00:20:36,050 If it starts going longer, the freeze may go longer. 548 00:20:36,050 --> 00:20:37,520 We'll see, we don't know yet, 549 00:20:37,520 --> 00:20:39,860 but that's the kinda rules set right now. 550 00:20:39,860 --> 00:20:43,710 As far as his household goods or her household goods, 551 00:20:43,710 --> 00:20:46,120 and all the rest of it, that would follow normally 552 00:20:46,120 --> 00:20:48,423 and logically once the orders are cut. 553 00:20:49,300 --> 00:20:52,360 - And there was a question there about offsetting the cost, 554 00:20:52,360 --> 00:20:56,270 and right now, with regards to TLA and TLE, specifically. 555 00:20:56,270 --> 00:20:58,650 So that entitlement is 10 days, 556 00:20:58,650 --> 00:21:01,087 but what we're asking commanders in the field 557 00:21:01,087 --> 00:21:03,690 is to go ahead and put members 558 00:21:03,690 --> 00:21:07,300 on awaiting transportation status and place them on per diem 559 00:21:07,300 --> 00:21:09,620 instead of the TLA, TLE, 560 00:21:09,620 --> 00:21:11,700 in order to help them offset the cost. 561 00:21:11,700 --> 00:21:14,440 So the first COA, course of action, 562 00:21:14,440 --> 00:21:16,970 will be for the member to contact their finance office 563 00:21:16,970 --> 00:21:19,330 to be able to go ahead and sort out those entitlements. 564 00:21:19,330 --> 00:21:20,760 - Thank you, that's very helpful. 565 00:21:20,760 --> 00:21:24,270 One to the Secretary, specific to the Pentagon reservation. 566 00:21:24,270 --> 00:21:26,930 How long has the Pentagon planned telework options 567 00:21:26,930 --> 00:21:28,950 and how long do you expect that people can continue 568 00:21:28,950 --> 00:21:31,260 to telework while carrying on the essential missions 569 00:21:31,260 --> 00:21:32,450 of the Pentagon? 570 00:21:32,450 --> 00:21:34,350 - Well again, it goes back to conditions. 571 00:21:34,350 --> 00:21:36,390 We're gonna telework as long as necessary 572 00:21:36,390 --> 00:21:39,880 to ensure that we're beyond the coronavirus crisis, 573 00:21:39,880 --> 00:21:40,770 if you will. 574 00:21:40,770 --> 00:21:42,310 Again, going back to priority number one, 575 00:21:42,310 --> 00:21:43,630 protecting our people. 576 00:21:43,630 --> 00:21:44,750 So we'll continue that. 577 00:21:44,750 --> 00:21:47,260 It's gonna be weeks for sure, maybe months, 578 00:21:47,260 --> 00:21:51,080 and we're asking every office head, every director, 579 00:21:51,080 --> 00:21:53,494 every person in the chain of command 580 00:21:53,494 --> 00:21:56,880 to exercise due diligence and great caution, 581 00:21:56,880 --> 00:21:58,423 and telework as much as possible 582 00:21:58,423 --> 00:22:01,560 so we can protect our people while performing our mission. 583 00:22:01,560 --> 00:22:03,730 So I think people should prepare themselves 584 00:22:03,730 --> 00:22:04,900 and adjust their routines. 585 00:22:04,900 --> 00:22:07,166 And we're doing what we can, by the way, 586 00:22:07,166 --> 00:22:09,420 on the network side to make sure we have 587 00:22:09,420 --> 00:22:12,210 adequate bandwidth to support telework. 588 00:22:12,210 --> 00:22:14,620 Now, I wanna put an important caveat in here as well, 589 00:22:14,620 --> 00:22:15,810 another ask I have. 590 00:22:15,810 --> 00:22:17,240 If you're teleworking, 591 00:22:17,240 --> 00:22:19,760 if you're doing anything involves the networks and IT, 592 00:22:19,760 --> 00:22:22,742 be very, very careful of IT vulnerabilities. 593 00:22:22,742 --> 00:22:26,280 We are a little bit more exposed when we're doing telework, 594 00:22:26,280 --> 00:22:27,540 using a lot more bandwidth, 595 00:22:27,540 --> 00:22:29,140 there's more open ports, et cetera. 596 00:22:29,140 --> 00:22:33,160 So I ask people to be doubly cautious about getting emails 597 00:22:33,160 --> 00:22:34,740 that aren't familiar to them, 598 00:22:34,740 --> 00:22:37,830 phishing attempts by bad persons, all that. 599 00:22:37,830 --> 00:22:42,240 Exercise good IT computer hygiene when you're on the system 600 00:22:42,240 --> 00:22:44,149 because we wanna make sure that we maintain 601 00:22:44,149 --> 00:22:46,610 the protection of our networks, of our systems. 602 00:22:46,610 --> 00:22:47,787 So, that's my one ask. 603 00:22:47,787 --> 00:22:51,250 As you telework, be doubly conscious of good hygiene 604 00:22:51,250 --> 00:22:54,870 when it comes to security measures on the computer systems. 605 00:22:54,870 --> 00:22:57,505 - Excellent, and there's some concern about just the safety 606 00:22:57,505 --> 00:22:59,350 and health of our senior leaders 607 00:22:59,350 --> 00:23:00,762 within the Department of Defense. 608 00:23:00,762 --> 00:23:02,880 Can you talk me through some of the precautions 609 00:23:02,880 --> 00:23:05,244 that have been implemented at the Pentagon to make sure, 610 00:23:05,244 --> 00:23:08,970 whether it's social distancing or hygiene guidelines, 611 00:23:08,970 --> 00:23:11,020 to make sure we're keeping our senior leaders 612 00:23:11,020 --> 00:23:12,350 and their staffs healthy? 613 00:23:12,350 --> 00:23:14,569 - Sure, well a couple weeks ago, we instituted a number of, 614 00:23:14,569 --> 00:23:17,920 all the CDC guidelines and procedures. 615 00:23:17,920 --> 00:23:19,760 The same one we're asking everybody else to practice. 616 00:23:19,760 --> 00:23:23,150 So social distancing, so stay within six feet, 617 00:23:23,150 --> 00:23:25,710 or outside of six feet of another person. 618 00:23:25,710 --> 00:23:27,920 So this is the closest I've been to the Chairman 619 00:23:27,920 --> 00:23:29,177 probably in two weeks, 'cause otherwise-- 620 00:23:29,177 --> 00:23:30,986 - [General Milley] And it won't last long. 621 00:23:30,986 --> 00:23:31,819 (laughing) 622 00:23:31,819 --> 00:23:34,888 - Otherwise we do meetings on VTC. 623 00:23:34,888 --> 00:23:36,976 So, we're practicing social distancing. 624 00:23:36,976 --> 00:23:40,270 Our offices get wiped down multiple times a day. 625 00:23:40,270 --> 00:23:42,500 We, obviously, instituted telework. 626 00:23:42,500 --> 00:23:45,640 So the Pentagon workforce right now is much smaller 627 00:23:45,640 --> 00:23:46,780 than it has been. 628 00:23:46,780 --> 00:23:50,319 We've curtailed travel and we're vetting folks 629 00:23:50,319 --> 00:23:53,181 coming into the building, now that we're at HPCON Charlie, 630 00:23:53,181 --> 00:23:55,740 and we're limiting people into our front offices 631 00:23:55,740 --> 00:23:57,140 a number of folks were exposed to. 632 00:23:57,140 --> 00:23:58,740 So we're taking a number of procedures 633 00:23:58,740 --> 00:24:00,600 and cautions, precautions. 634 00:24:00,600 --> 00:24:01,433 That's what we're asking 635 00:24:01,433 --> 00:24:03,080 the rest of the force to do as well, 636 00:24:03,080 --> 00:24:06,080 consistent with their mission requirements, right? 637 00:24:06,080 --> 00:24:06,913 It's not perfect. 638 00:24:06,913 --> 00:24:09,310 It's so that you kind of protect the force 639 00:24:09,310 --> 00:24:10,170 as much as possible. 640 00:24:10,170 --> 00:24:11,690 We don't live in a risk free environment. 641 00:24:11,690 --> 00:24:14,090 You're not gonna completely eliminate risk, 642 00:24:14,090 --> 00:24:15,470 but you can manage it and reduce it, 643 00:24:15,470 --> 00:24:17,940 and that's what we ask everybody to do. 644 00:24:17,940 --> 00:24:22,337 - And a question for the Dyess from Rachel, who says, 645 00:24:22,337 --> 00:24:24,317 "For service members with retirement dates 646 00:24:24,317 --> 00:24:27,117 "coming up this summer, June, July, August, 647 00:24:27,117 --> 00:24:29,397 "is there any kind of stop loss on the horizon 648 00:24:29,397 --> 00:24:32,547 "since the relief cannot PCS in for changeover 649 00:24:32,547 --> 00:24:34,580 "before terminal leave starts?" 650 00:24:34,580 --> 00:24:36,576 - Yeah, the Secretary's policy, 651 00:24:36,576 --> 00:24:38,410 correct me if I'm wrong, Secretary, 652 00:24:38,410 --> 00:24:41,795 but the Secretary's policy clearly stated retirees were, 653 00:24:41,795 --> 00:24:45,810 those to be retired are exempt from the stop move. 654 00:24:45,810 --> 00:24:49,500 So for Rachel, if you so choose to retire, 655 00:24:49,500 --> 00:24:51,680 we thank you for your lifetime of service 656 00:24:51,680 --> 00:24:55,440 and you'll be allowed to retire in good standing. 657 00:24:55,440 --> 00:24:58,270 - Excellent, we've got one from Camp Lejeune. 658 00:24:58,270 --> 00:25:00,187 What is your message to deployed service members 659 00:25:00,187 --> 00:25:02,100 and their families affected 660 00:25:02,100 --> 00:25:05,786 by recent quarantine restrictions and stop movement orders? 661 00:25:05,786 --> 00:25:07,370 - Well look, if you're deployed, 662 00:25:07,370 --> 00:25:09,800 thank you for serving abroad and in a deployed status. 663 00:25:09,800 --> 00:25:12,500 It puts additional hardship, not only on the service member, 664 00:25:12,500 --> 00:25:14,992 but also the family, right, 'cause you have that separation. 665 00:25:14,992 --> 00:25:19,450 And we ask them to, again, as you're deployed, 666 00:25:19,450 --> 00:25:21,880 practice all these good precautions and procedures 667 00:25:21,880 --> 00:25:23,910 that we're asking of folks back home. 668 00:25:23,910 --> 00:25:25,750 We'd ask the same of your family and friends 669 00:25:25,750 --> 00:25:28,740 back at Camp Lejeune to do the same. 670 00:25:28,740 --> 00:25:32,401 We've put a halt in terms of movements back and forth. 671 00:25:32,401 --> 00:25:34,990 What we have to figure out is in the coming days 672 00:25:34,990 --> 00:25:36,090 our rotation schedule. 673 00:25:36,090 --> 00:25:39,540 So, if his or her marine is on a rotation, 674 00:25:39,540 --> 00:25:41,440 we're gonna have to figure out do we rotate 675 00:25:41,440 --> 00:25:43,650 or do we hold in place until we get through this. 676 00:25:43,650 --> 00:25:45,560 What we're trying to do, again, is limit movement. 677 00:25:45,560 --> 00:25:47,840 We're trying to make sure we curtail 678 00:25:47,840 --> 00:25:50,550 the spread of the virus by folks going abroad 679 00:25:50,550 --> 00:25:53,010 or coming back home from overseas, 680 00:25:53,010 --> 00:25:55,210 and trying to take all those precautionary measures. 681 00:25:55,210 --> 00:25:56,540 But, hang in there. 682 00:25:56,540 --> 00:25:57,373 We appreciate it. 683 00:25:57,373 --> 00:25:58,550 We've all been deployed. 684 00:25:58,550 --> 00:26:00,310 We know what that's like, that separation, 685 00:26:00,310 --> 00:26:02,870 and we appreciate the hardship it may be placing 686 00:26:02,870 --> 00:26:04,240 on families at this time, 687 00:26:04,240 --> 00:26:06,440 not having either both parents there 688 00:26:06,440 --> 00:26:07,410 or other members of the family. 689 00:26:07,410 --> 00:26:08,810 So, very conscious of that. 690 00:26:08,810 --> 00:26:10,860 We're trying to be very deliberate 691 00:26:10,860 --> 00:26:12,060 as we think through the next steps 692 00:26:12,060 --> 00:26:14,516 and how we might adjust our policies. 693 00:26:14,516 --> 00:26:16,382 - And it seems, go ahead, sir. 694 00:26:16,382 --> 00:26:17,215 - I would like to add on that. 695 00:26:17,215 --> 00:26:18,720 That's the reason why we have family care plans 696 00:26:18,720 --> 00:26:19,750 and other things in place, 697 00:26:19,750 --> 00:26:21,570 just in case things like this happen. 698 00:26:21,570 --> 00:26:24,410 So, we continue to go ahead and trust the chain of command 699 00:26:24,410 --> 00:26:26,770 to make sure that works, their sergeants, 700 00:26:26,770 --> 00:26:28,190 those plans to take care of our people. 701 00:26:28,190 --> 00:26:30,310 - Excellent, and it seems the Department of Defense 702 00:26:30,310 --> 00:26:31,820 is really playing a leadership role 703 00:26:31,820 --> 00:26:33,250 in these response efforts. 704 00:26:33,250 --> 00:26:35,190 Can you talk me through some of the decisions 705 00:26:35,190 --> 00:26:36,023 that have been made? 706 00:26:36,023 --> 00:26:38,313 For example, most recently, the Mercy deploying 707 00:26:38,313 --> 00:26:40,887 to assist relief efforts in Los Angeles. 708 00:26:40,887 --> 00:26:43,078 Some of those efforts that have taken place 709 00:26:43,078 --> 00:26:45,440 and that may be coming. 710 00:26:45,440 --> 00:26:47,500 - Sure, I'll keep going back to the priorities. 711 00:26:47,500 --> 00:26:48,810 So, priority number one is take care 712 00:26:48,810 --> 00:26:51,140 of our service members, our civilians, and our families. 713 00:26:51,140 --> 00:26:53,790 Number two, safeguard our mission capability. 714 00:26:53,790 --> 00:26:55,470 So, our ability to accomplish our missions, 715 00:26:55,470 --> 00:26:57,010 wherever they may be. 716 00:26:57,010 --> 00:27:00,120 And number three was support the whole of government 717 00:27:00,120 --> 00:27:02,250 interagency effort that's upon us. 718 00:27:02,250 --> 00:27:04,570 So, making sure that we can do number one and two, 719 00:27:04,570 --> 00:27:06,820 that frees up capacity to do number three. 720 00:27:06,820 --> 00:27:09,810 And as I said earlier, we have the National Guard. 721 00:27:09,810 --> 00:27:12,470 Thousands of guardsmen out there in 50 states, 722 00:27:12,470 --> 00:27:15,850 plus four territories and the District of Columbia, 723 00:27:15,850 --> 00:27:18,151 are out there right now on the front lines 724 00:27:18,151 --> 00:27:21,450 setting up treatment facilities, conducting testing, 725 00:27:21,450 --> 00:27:25,060 providing food in some cases, logistical wraparound support. 726 00:27:25,060 --> 00:27:26,270 All those things that are necessary 727 00:27:26,270 --> 00:27:27,700 to support the American people. 728 00:27:27,700 --> 00:27:29,420 We got our researchers, our scientists, 729 00:27:29,420 --> 00:27:32,598 at Fort Detrick and elsewhere, in the game helping out. 730 00:27:32,598 --> 00:27:37,210 The Mercy is deployed to Los Angeles effective last night. 731 00:27:37,210 --> 00:27:38,870 The Comfort will be deploying to New York City 732 00:27:38,870 --> 00:27:40,439 in less than 14 days. 733 00:27:40,439 --> 00:27:42,860 We're deploying Army field hospitals 734 00:27:42,860 --> 00:27:45,070 to Seattle and to New York City. 735 00:27:45,070 --> 00:27:46,480 So that's what it looks right now. 736 00:27:46,480 --> 00:27:47,313 There's more going on. 737 00:27:47,313 --> 00:27:49,450 We've freed up equipment, medical supplies. 738 00:27:49,450 --> 00:27:53,230 I anticipate us deploying more expeditionary medical units 739 00:27:53,230 --> 00:27:55,230 in the coming days and weeks to do that, 740 00:27:55,230 --> 00:27:57,554 and eventually we'll probably hop them around the country 741 00:27:57,554 --> 00:27:59,750 as need arises. 742 00:27:59,750 --> 00:28:02,050 That's gonna put a demand on both our resources, 743 00:28:02,050 --> 00:28:03,360 and our doctors, and nurses, 744 00:28:03,360 --> 00:28:04,460 and other medical professionals, 745 00:28:04,460 --> 00:28:05,820 but we think we can manage it. 746 00:28:05,820 --> 00:28:08,380 It's very important to help our fellow Americans out. 747 00:28:08,380 --> 00:28:09,750 This is something we do all the time, 748 00:28:09,750 --> 00:28:13,410 whether it's floods or wildfires, hurricanes, you name it. 749 00:28:13,410 --> 00:28:15,300 We're there to support the American people 750 00:28:15,300 --> 00:28:17,150 while ensuring that we can still perform 751 00:28:17,150 --> 00:28:19,000 our national security mission. 752 00:28:19,000 --> 00:28:21,500 - And one final question, then I'll turn it to all of you 753 00:28:21,500 --> 00:28:23,009 just for brief closing remarks. 754 00:28:23,009 --> 00:28:25,410 The question of testing has arisen. 755 00:28:25,410 --> 00:28:27,167 Are all service members 756 00:28:27,167 --> 00:28:29,270 who think that they need to be tested, 757 00:28:29,270 --> 00:28:31,090 do they have access to tests? 758 00:28:31,090 --> 00:28:33,430 And if you can elaborate on who should get tested, 759 00:28:33,430 --> 00:28:35,790 who doesn't need to, what mitigation efforts 760 00:28:35,790 --> 00:28:38,790 they can take if they're feeling ill, that would be great. 761 00:28:38,790 --> 00:28:40,730 - Sure, you wanna take that one, Chairman? 762 00:28:40,730 --> 00:28:44,881 - Yeah, so for testing, who has to get tested? 763 00:28:44,881 --> 00:28:48,300 People who are, according to CDC guidance right now, 764 00:28:48,300 --> 00:28:49,757 people who are symptomatic. 765 00:28:49,757 --> 00:28:53,697 If you are experiencing any of the flu-like symptoms, 766 00:28:53,697 --> 00:28:58,697 runny noses, headaches, aches and pains, fever obviously. 767 00:28:58,853 --> 00:29:02,240 And a fever, by the way, I have now learned, 768 00:29:02,240 --> 00:29:06,590 fever is technically defined as being 100 degrees or higher, 769 00:29:06,590 --> 00:29:08,202 as opposed to 99 degrees. 770 00:29:08,202 --> 00:29:10,950 So, but it's flu-like symptoms, 771 00:29:10,950 --> 00:29:13,040 and if you're feeling like you got the flu, 772 00:29:13,040 --> 00:29:15,540 then you probably should get tested for coronavirus. 773 00:29:15,540 --> 00:29:16,810 Again, we're in flu season. 774 00:29:16,810 --> 00:29:18,050 You're in allergy season. 775 00:29:18,050 --> 00:29:19,410 You're in cold season. 776 00:29:19,410 --> 00:29:20,610 And then there's this coronavirus. 777 00:29:20,610 --> 00:29:23,130 So they mimic each other in terms of their symptoms. 778 00:29:23,130 --> 00:29:25,210 But if you're symptomatic, by all means get tested, 779 00:29:25,210 --> 00:29:26,430 and we do have the capacity throughout 780 00:29:26,430 --> 00:29:28,090 the Department of Defense, 781 00:29:28,090 --> 00:29:31,890 and the commercial or the civilian world, to get tested now. 782 00:29:31,890 --> 00:29:34,048 So if you're having those symptoms, you should get tested. 783 00:29:34,048 --> 00:29:35,520 If you're not having those symptoms, 784 00:29:35,520 --> 00:29:36,929 then you don't need to be tested. 785 00:29:36,929 --> 00:29:38,615 - And on the testing piece, 786 00:29:38,615 --> 00:29:40,660 the Chairman rightly laid out the guidelines. 787 00:29:40,660 --> 00:29:42,360 Those are the guidelines issued by the CDC. 788 00:29:42,360 --> 00:29:44,965 Those are the guidelines that we all are following as well. 789 00:29:44,965 --> 00:29:46,710 With regard to testing, 790 00:29:46,710 --> 00:29:48,550 we're making sure that we have enough swabs. 791 00:29:48,550 --> 00:29:50,460 We're making sure we have enough test kits. 792 00:29:50,460 --> 00:29:51,980 We're making sure that we have enough throughput 793 00:29:51,980 --> 00:29:53,660 into our labs to do that. 794 00:29:53,660 --> 00:29:54,950 It's not perfect right now. 795 00:29:54,950 --> 00:29:58,060 We can do better, but we're reacting as it comes up, 796 00:29:58,060 --> 00:29:59,890 needs based on the services, 797 00:29:59,890 --> 00:30:01,370 what the combatant commanders are telling us. 798 00:30:01,370 --> 00:30:04,683 But for the most part, we've been able to test people 799 00:30:04,683 --> 00:30:08,890 and get results back in a timely manner, in most cases. 800 00:30:08,890 --> 00:30:10,480 In other places, we may be challenged 801 00:30:10,480 --> 00:30:12,840 in terms of timeliness, but that's usually a function 802 00:30:12,840 --> 00:30:14,880 of distance and isolation, and whatnot. 803 00:30:14,880 --> 00:30:17,979 So, that capability will ramp up over time. 804 00:30:17,979 --> 00:30:20,752 I think as some have read in the news, 805 00:30:20,752 --> 00:30:23,589 we'll soon see some self-test kits coming out. 806 00:30:23,589 --> 00:30:25,694 We know, because the Army's working on it, 807 00:30:25,694 --> 00:30:28,920 new types of machines to process test kits 808 00:30:28,920 --> 00:30:30,730 much more quickly in volume. 809 00:30:30,730 --> 00:30:32,080 That's coming online. 810 00:30:32,080 --> 00:30:34,286 So we see, again, as the system ramps up, 811 00:30:34,286 --> 00:30:37,280 the availability will increase dramatically. 812 00:30:37,280 --> 00:30:39,320 The turnaround time with regard to results 813 00:30:39,320 --> 00:30:40,760 will increase dramatically. 814 00:30:40,760 --> 00:30:43,830 But at the same time, if you don't need to be tested, 815 00:30:43,830 --> 00:30:45,040 don't get tested. 816 00:30:45,040 --> 00:30:47,350 Otherwise, follow all the CDC guidelines 817 00:30:47,350 --> 00:30:51,560 with regard to best practices and other guidance 818 00:30:51,560 --> 00:30:53,216 that we've issued on too. 819 00:30:53,216 --> 00:30:55,770 - Excellent, and just briefly because I know you all 820 00:30:55,770 --> 00:30:56,930 are crunched for time. 821 00:30:56,930 --> 00:30:59,160 If you just wanna give closing remarks to the force, 822 00:30:59,160 --> 00:31:00,470 to family, who are listening today, 823 00:31:00,470 --> 00:31:02,210 tuned in from all over the world. 824 00:31:02,210 --> 00:31:04,730 When are we gonna get through this crisis? 825 00:31:04,730 --> 00:31:06,659 What do they need to do for the time being? 826 00:31:06,659 --> 00:31:08,010 We'd appreciate that. 827 00:31:08,010 --> 00:31:09,000 - [Mark] I'll let you go first. 828 00:31:09,000 --> 00:31:11,330 - Well, first of all, I would like to reiterate the fact 829 00:31:11,330 --> 00:31:14,220 that uncertainty's nothing new for us. 830 00:31:14,220 --> 00:31:16,630 I mean, that's what the military members and families 831 00:31:16,630 --> 00:31:17,810 do on a daily basis. 832 00:31:17,810 --> 00:31:20,789 But, we need to continue to take care of one another. 833 00:31:20,789 --> 00:31:23,980 We need to make sure that we're looking out 834 00:31:23,980 --> 00:31:24,977 for our neighbors. 835 00:31:24,977 --> 00:31:28,560 For those that are deployed, rest assured that your families 836 00:31:28,560 --> 00:31:29,770 will be taken care of, 837 00:31:29,770 --> 00:31:31,960 and it's something that we're gonna take very seriously 838 00:31:31,960 --> 00:31:33,300 throughout this crisis. 839 00:31:33,300 --> 00:31:34,133 Sir. 840 00:31:34,133 --> 00:31:34,966 - Chairman. 841 00:31:34,966 --> 00:31:36,191 - So you asked when. 842 00:31:36,191 --> 00:31:38,920 Frankly, no one actually knows that. 843 00:31:38,920 --> 00:31:40,190 There are a variety of models. 844 00:31:40,190 --> 00:31:42,560 There's best case, worst case, something in the middle. 845 00:31:42,560 --> 00:31:44,430 Based on what we've already said, 846 00:31:44,430 --> 00:31:46,110 you're looking at somewhere around 90 days, 847 00:31:46,110 --> 00:31:47,300 based on some of the other countries. 848 00:31:47,300 --> 00:31:49,450 That may or may not apply to the United States, we'll see. 849 00:31:49,450 --> 00:31:52,230 If it does apply, you're looking at probably late May, June, 850 00:31:52,230 --> 00:31:53,063 something in that range. 851 00:31:53,063 --> 00:31:55,580 Maybe it could be as late as July, something like that. 852 00:31:55,580 --> 00:31:57,103 But we will get through it. 853 00:31:57,103 --> 00:32:01,587 It's not a question of when, we will. 854 00:32:01,587 --> 00:32:04,560 We will get through it and we'll pull together 855 00:32:04,560 --> 00:32:05,960 as a country, as a military. 856 00:32:05,960 --> 00:32:07,080 And we, the United States military, 857 00:32:07,080 --> 00:32:09,360 are gonna do whatever's required to defend 858 00:32:09,360 --> 00:32:10,770 the people of the United States. 859 00:32:10,770 --> 00:32:14,220 One of the keys here is to prevent misinformation. 860 00:32:14,220 --> 00:32:15,280 Don't pass along rumors. 861 00:32:15,280 --> 00:32:17,330 Make sure you're talking in terms of facts. 862 00:32:17,330 --> 00:32:19,260 Making sure that you have the right information 863 00:32:19,260 --> 00:32:20,350 from the CDC. 864 00:32:20,350 --> 00:32:22,150 Check in routinely with your leadership 865 00:32:22,150 --> 00:32:23,520 and your chain of command. 866 00:32:23,520 --> 00:32:25,507 And together, we're gonna get through this, 867 00:32:25,507 --> 00:32:27,740 and we'll defeat this virus, 868 00:32:27,740 --> 00:32:30,502 and we'll continue to defend the great republic that we are. 869 00:32:30,502 --> 00:32:32,470 - So, I got three messages. 870 00:32:32,470 --> 00:32:33,303 First of all, 871 00:32:33,303 --> 00:32:35,505 to commanders and senior non-commissioned officers 872 00:32:35,505 --> 00:32:39,810 at all levels, keep in mind our DoD's top priorities. 873 00:32:39,810 --> 00:32:41,850 Number one, take care of your people 874 00:32:41,850 --> 00:32:44,230 and take care of their family members. 875 00:32:44,230 --> 00:32:46,465 Number two, make sure that you're ensuring 876 00:32:46,465 --> 00:32:49,030 that we have full national mission capabilities, 877 00:32:49,030 --> 00:32:50,970 that we can do our mission if called upon. 878 00:32:50,970 --> 00:32:51,803 And then number three, 879 00:32:51,803 --> 00:32:53,739 help us support the interagency effort. 880 00:32:53,739 --> 00:32:54,572 That's number one. 881 00:32:54,572 --> 00:32:57,279 What'd I say number two, to all leaders, of all ranks, 882 00:32:57,279 --> 00:32:59,469 whether you're in command or not, 883 00:32:59,469 --> 00:33:04,350 is follow the CDC guidelines that we put out there. 884 00:33:04,350 --> 00:33:06,840 Follow the DoD guidelines that we put out there. 885 00:33:06,840 --> 00:33:08,550 Exercise social distancing. 886 00:33:08,550 --> 00:33:11,154 Exercise not gathering in large groups. 887 00:33:11,154 --> 00:33:14,500 Practice all the things that we've put out 888 00:33:14,500 --> 00:33:15,800 in order to protect the force, 889 00:33:15,800 --> 00:33:16,900 in order to accomplish those, 890 00:33:16,900 --> 00:33:18,360 at least priorities one and two. 891 00:33:18,360 --> 00:33:20,999 It's incumbent upon us at all levels to do that, 892 00:33:20,999 --> 00:33:24,100 and it's also taking care of your shipmates, 893 00:33:24,100 --> 00:33:26,998 your troop mates, your air mates on left and right of you. 894 00:33:26,998 --> 00:33:29,930 Take care of one another and we will all get through this, 895 00:33:29,930 --> 00:33:32,520 and I guess that is my third message as well. 896 00:33:32,520 --> 00:33:33,600 We will get through this. 897 00:33:33,600 --> 00:33:34,770 This is a challenge. 898 00:33:34,770 --> 00:33:35,840 It's a national challenge. 899 00:33:35,840 --> 00:33:36,840 It's a global challenge. 900 00:33:36,840 --> 00:33:39,466 It's unprecedented in my lifetime, that I can recall, 901 00:33:39,466 --> 00:33:42,530 but the American people, the American military, 902 00:33:42,530 --> 00:33:45,120 has a great spirit, a great will, a great capability. 903 00:33:45,120 --> 00:33:47,520 I'm fully confident that at the end of the day, 904 00:33:47,520 --> 00:33:49,440 in a period of months, we will get through this. 905 00:33:49,440 --> 00:33:51,442 We'll be back on the old uptempo again. 906 00:33:51,442 --> 00:33:53,514 We'll be fully mission capable 907 00:33:53,514 --> 00:33:56,680 and prepared to do our missions just as we are right now. 908 00:33:56,680 --> 00:33:59,730 It's a matter of time, but we need everybody in the meantime 909 00:33:59,730 --> 00:34:01,984 to follow these guidelines, to be patient, 910 00:34:01,984 --> 00:34:03,620 to listen to the chain of command, 911 00:34:03,620 --> 00:34:05,270 to help out the chain of command, 912 00:34:05,270 --> 00:34:08,030 and I'm fully confident that we'll all be well, 913 00:34:08,030 --> 00:34:09,890 if not better, at the end of the day. 914 00:34:09,890 --> 00:34:10,723 Thank you. 915 00:34:10,723 --> 00:34:11,888 - [Alyssa] Thank you, 916 00:34:11,888 --> 00:34:13,343 and thank you to the folks at home tuning in.