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There is no doubt in m\ mind, that a better understanding of the oceans and the 

 land surface beneath it, is critical to our ver\ sur\ival. 



The pre\i<)us speakers ha\e provided you with important insight into how our 

 nation might best meet this challenge and I suppon their recommendations. The\ 

 clear!> represent the oceanographic communit\ and understand its long-range 

 research objectives and hovv those objectives might best be achieved. 



(letting our house in fiscal order is important but I urge all of vou to get on with 

 the task. Time is a wasting. 



Thank You 



