they consider it a good sign for their own prospects. my experience and success as an operations officer led to three leadership positions in the clandestine service. one year ago i was asked to serve as deputy director of c.i.a. the reaction of the workforce to a rare nomination of one of their own to be director, someone who has been in the trenches with them, has been overwhelming. i am humbled by their confidence that i can successfully lead this agency and inspired to work harder than ever to maintain that trust. they know that i don't need time to learn the business of how c.i.a. works. i know c.i.a. like the back of my hand. i know them, i know the threats we face, and i know what we need to be successful in our mission. i have played a leading role this past year in setting us on the right path, and i intend on