Introduction
Good morning. I’m pleased to be here today, and to have the opportunity to welcome you, as we work together to address our concerns regarding the front end of the fuel cycle in the nuclear industry.

It was a great honor to serve more than 38 years in the U.S. Navy, and especially for the last eight years as Admiral Hyman Rickover’s third successor as director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion.

In many ways I consider my new position a natural continuation of my service in the U.S. Navy, because of my very strong belief that energy security is an essential element of national security.

I’ve watched very closely the industry’s achievements in recent years, and I am extremely impressed by what I’ve seen.

I’m also encouraged by the strong leadership we’ve seen here in Washington—most recently from President Bush himself and from Secretary Abraham and the president’s nominee to replace him, Sam Bodman.

In testimony before Congress, in speeches and in interviews with the media just this month, the administration has clearly expressed its strong support for the vital role of nuclear energy in America’s diverse electricity supply portfolio.

And when the president goes to Congress, he’ll find many valuable allies who have done much to support nuclear energy’s role in America’s economic and national security.

The fact of the matter is, our industry is poised for growth, and the conditions needed are falling into place right now.