other than joining a different proceeding, they should leave the video function on. if members will be absent for a different period, they should exit the software platform entirely and then rejoin it if they return. members may use the software platforms chat feature to communicate with staff regarding technical or logistical support issues only. finally, i have designated a committee staff member to, if necessary, mute unrecognized members microphones to cancel inadvertent background noise that may disrupt the procedure. good morning, i'd like to welcome our witnesses here. we have the honorable lloyd austin iii secretary of defense, general mark milley, chairman joint chief of staff, and i want to thank them for the time as they provide an update on the issues surrounding the end of the u.s. military mission in afghanistan and our mission going toward dealing with counterterrorism in south asia and the continuing mission to try to get as many afghans and any remaining americans out of the country. i'm looking forward to what i