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CNN Live At Daybreak

Fifth Lodi Muslim Detained in Terror Probe; Military Divorce Rate on Rise; Unsafe Skies?

Aired June 09, 2005 - 06:29   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


ANNOUNCER: From the Time Warner center in New York, this is DAYBREAK, with Carol Costello and Chad Myers.
VALERIE MORRIS, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning to you. I'm Valerie Morris in today for Carol Costello.

Also coming up this half-hour, divorce is on the rise among military couples. We'll look at why it may be harder to keep a military marriage together.

And if safety is a top concern for airlines, why would there be fewer inspectors because of FAA budget cuts?

But first, "Now in the News."

British Foreign Minister Jack Straw made an unannounced visit to Baghdad today. He and two European Union officials met with Iraqi leaders about a conference on developing Iraq. That conference is set for Brussels later this month.

The Senate is expected to vote today on the federal appeals court nomination of Judge William Pryor. He is the last of three nominees that Democrats said could have a final vote as part of the agreement on filibusters.

And Arizona firefighters are battling a fast-moving brush fire. It's charred about 1,000 acres and forced the evacuation of at least 30 people from their homes near the town of Wickenburg.

(WEATHER REPORT)

MORRIS: Moving now to CNN's "Security Watch." A fifth person is in custody as part of that federal terror investigation in Lodi, California.

Let's get more on this latest story from our Chris Lawrence in Lodi -- Chris.

CHRIS LAWRENCE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Yes, good morning, Valerie.

Yesterday, we were telling you that CNN sources and law enforcement were giving us an indication that this wasn't over; that more arrests could follow. And today, we have heard that a fifth person has been detained in the Lodi terrorism investigation.

He is Mohammed Hassan Adil. He's the 19-year-old son of one of the spiritual leaders, who was detained on an immigration violation, like his father and the other spiritual leader.

The spokeswoman would not discuss exactly how he would be tied to the other two men who were arrested, two U.S. citizens, Umer Hayat and his son, Hamid Hayat, who were charged with lying to federal officials about Hamid Hayat's involvement in a terrorist training camp in Pakistan.

MORRIS: A story that has obviously prompted neighbors to say what they feel about these people. It's just so difficult for them to their mind around the fact that these people, their neighbors, could have been involved.

LAWRENCE: That's right. We spoke with several neighbors, one of them Kareena Morrillo (ph), who said in talking about Umer Hayat, who has been in the community for some time, said he was very friendly with the kids, he never did anything to make us believe he was planning something like this.

And we have to remember, when you say the word "terrorism," it has such connotations.

We also spoke with Umer Hayat's attorney, Johnny Griffin, who said, you know, it's important for everyone to push the pause button. He said, he's not charged now with anything that has to do with terrorism. He's only charged with making a false statement to federal agents.

Also, a distinction I'd like to point out also, when we read the original federal affidavit, it listed potential specific targets as hospitals and grocery stores in this alleged plot. So, federal officials are now backing off that statement.

In a press conference yesterday, they indicated that, although they believe acts of terrorism were being planned to be committed against us, they said we don't have exact plans, timing or even specific targets.

And in speaking with District Attorney McGregor Scott, he said that the initial affidavit was a draft. And even though it was regularly referenced throughout the day, there were things in there like specific targets that just were not true.

MORRIS: All right, Chris, thank you.

LAWRENCE: So, the first federal officials are backing off a bit.

MORRIS: It seems that there's lots of paperwork to untangle, and also people need to keep in mind innocent until charged and proven guilty. Christ Lawrence reporting from Lodi, California.

And this reminder to you. Do stay tuned to CNN day and night for the most reliable news about your security.

A new announcement today from Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Let's check in with Carol Costello for a look at what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING." Hi, Carol.

CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning, Valerie.

You're right. A father is the new head of Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Glenn Burch (ph) is the first man ever chosen to head the organization in its 25 year history. Burch (ph) says a personal tragedy led him to the organization. We will hear that story and his plans for the organization as he takes over as head mom.

And just in time for bathing suit season, we're talking diets. The American Heart Association says forget all of the fads. It says it's a simple formula for losing weight called the no-fad diet. Are you listening, Chad Myers? The Atkins Diet is out. In this diet, all you have to do is focus on three central ideas. We'll tell you what they are just ahead on "AMERICAN MORNING."

Back to you -- Valerie.

MORRIS: OK, thank you very much, Carol.

Some sniping is going on outside the jury room at the Michael Jackson trial. The latest twist is a spat over who speaks for the pop star while the jury decides his fate. Spokeswoman Ramone Bain (ph) says Jackson returned to a hospital for some follow-up back pain treatment. Bain (ph) insisted she has the lead attorney's blessing to talk to the media.

However, says Tom Mesereau -- quote: "I have not authorized anyone to speak or hold any press conferences on behalf of Michael Jackson or his family. A gag order is in effect, which the defense team will continue to honor" -- end quote.

Jurors in Jackson's child molestation trial return today. They deliberated for more than three full days without reaching a verdict.

Now to the political hot button issue of Guantanamo Bay. The big question in recent days has been: Should the detention center for suspected terrorists be shut down?

The Bush administration is weighing in with some seemingly conflicting thoughts. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld talked about the issue before heading off to a NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels. He said -- quote -- "I know of no one in the U.S. government in the executive branch that is considering closing Guantanamo" -- end quote.

Meanwhile, President Bush seemed to have left the door open to possible closure in the future, saying on another news network -- quote: "We are exploring all alternatives as to how best to do the main objective, which is to protect America. What we don't want to do is let somebody out that comes back and harms us" -- end quote.

Texas Governor Rick Perry, he's being criticized by gay groups for remarks he made over the weekend. Perry went to a church to sign a proposed amendment banning same-sex marriage, on Sunday he went there. During the ceremony he said, and I am quoting again: "Texans made a decision about marriage. And if there is a state that has more lenient views than Texas, then maybe that's a better place for them to live" -- end quote. Lesbian and gay rights groups are demanding an apology.

Now, few people would argue with this: Keeping a successful marriage going can be a challenge. But when spouses are active-duty soldiers, it takes it to a whole new level of stress, and the divorce rate shows it, as our Jamie McIntyre reports.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

JAMIE MCINTYRE, CNN SENIOR PENTAGON CORRESPONDENT: War is hell on marriages, especially for Army officers who are responsible for two families: their comrades in arms and their spouses at home.

Just look at the numbers from last year. In 2004, 3,325 Army officers' marriages ended in divorce, compared to 1,866 in 2003 and 1,060 in 2002. That's a jump of 78 percent in one year and triple the number from three years ago.

If you combine enlisted soldiers and officers, the numbers are still dramatic. More than 10,000 divorces last year, a jump of more than 3,000 from the year before. That pushes the overall Army divorce rate from just under 3 percent to just over 4 percent.

The Army says the reason is obvious: the stress of combat and long deployments, both in Iraq and Afghanistan.

LT. COL. GERALD NELSON, U.S. ARMY CHAPLAIN: Everyday routine is completely different. They've been told what to do. They know where to go. And they come back, and civilian life is really quite a change.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Welcome home.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thank you, sweetie.

MCINTYRE: Army Major Bob Cabell and his wife, Elizabeth, hope to avoid becoming just another divorce statistic. So, when he returned from Iraq, they enlisted in the Army's "Building Strong and Ready Families Program."

MAJ. BOB CABELL, U.S. ARMY RESERVE: There was a disconnect in our relationship with just general stuff, making decisions and how we do that.

ELIZABETH CABELL, WIFE: Because I didn't stop.

B. CABELL: Me trying to fit in...

E. CABELL: Right, yes.

B. CABELL: Me trying to be the round peg in the square hole.

MCINTYRE: With Internet and cell phone technology, it's easier for soldiers to keep in touch from the battlefield, but experts say that doesn't always help a shaky marriage.

KATHLEEN MOAKLER, NATION MILITARY FAMILY ASSN: Communication is both a blessing and a curse, because the service members know more about what's going on at home, and the families know more about what's going on in the field. And while for many that's a comfort, for others, it could be a detriment, because it gives them more to worry about.

MCINTYRE (on camera): The Army says it is well aware of the strain that long and dangerous deployments put on families. And it has a number of counseling and education programs aimed at keeping marriages together. But experts say that doesn't change one essential fact: It's not easy being married to a soldier serving in a faraway war zone.

Jamie McIntyre, CNN, the Pentagon.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

MORRIS: Still to come, are the major airlines putting costs above your safety? Some answers when DAYBREAK continues.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

MORRIS: The international markets are down today. Tokyo's Nikkei is down 120 points. The London FTSE is down nearly 18. And the German DAX is down about 15.

Your news, money, weather and sports. Hello again, everyone. It is 6:44, and here's what's all new this morning.

A fifth person has been detained in connection with a terrorism investigation in California. Authorities say a 19-year-old is being held on immigration charges.

In money, the home shared by June and Johnny Cash is up for sale. Eighteen rooms, a lake, a swimming pool, seven bedrooms and more, all for 2.9 million. The home, of course, is near Nashville.

In culture, a couple of ride vehicles from two of Disneyland's opening attractions way back in 1955 have been taken to Washington. They're going on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.

In sports, the NHL could be closer to ending the lockout that spoiled last season. The Toronto "Globe and Mail" reports the owners and players' union have agreed on a salary cap, which was a major obstacle in their labor talks.

(WEATHER REPORT)

MORRIS: We have talking a lot this morning about a report, not about our skies when it comes to weather, but our skies because they may be unsafe. The focus of this report is airline inspections, both from FAA inspectors and outsourced maintenance crews.

"USA Today" travel reporter Ben Mutzabaugh joins us now from Washington.

Ben, could you please shed a little more light on this report?

BEN MUTZABAUGH, "USA TODAY" TRAVEL REPORTER: Sure. Good morning.

MORRIS: Good morning to you.

MUTZABAUGH: This report raises a number of issues. One of them is airlines have been increasingly outsourcing a lot of their maintenance work, heavy maintenance work in particular, that's done on their big jets. And for a while now, we've been hearing from labor groups, who are concerned that this maintenance may not be subjected to the same scrutiny that the airlines' in-house work is done. And, of course, that has implications for how safe is the plane that you might be flying on?

And it turns out, apparently, where there is smoke there is fire, because after several months of people raising flags about this, here you get the Department of Transportation's report on this, where they say, yes, this may be a problem.

MORRIS: It may be a problem. And I think that if people are at all concerned about their safety when they travel, which obviously is what everyone is, I think passengers want to know, how does this translate then for how secure we should feel taking to the skies?

MUTZABAUGH: Well, you know, and that's where the FAA -- the FAA was pretty much slammed in this report. That's what the DOT said the FAA was maybe somewhat lax in some of their inspections.

But what the FAA rebuts by saying is you know what? This is the safest period in aviation history in the United States. There hasn't been a crash of a single major plane, of a big aircraft in years. So, they're saying, well, if something is broken, it's clearly not impacting safety in the skies.

Of course, the critics, including the people who put out this report, are saying, yes, there hasn't been any major accidents recently. But we've seen some close calls and some of this maintenance out-work, short staffing with the FAA inspectors, this certainly creates the possibility that something could be looming.

MORRIS: Ben, can you say something that then is going to reassure people who are traveling? I mean, what should people take away from this?

MUTZABAUGH: Well, the good news is now there has been a light shined on this issue. So, if there are any issues that need to be worked out, anything that the government needs to know or the FAA needs to improve, you'd better believe it's going to be in the spotlight now. And everyone from labor groups to passengers' rights groups are going to be pushing the government to make sure that this string of success and safety in the sky keeps going forward.

MORRIS: And how quickly is this going to be implemented? MUTZABAUGH: Well, of course, it is the government, so there is no telling on how quickly this will move along. So, I suspect it will be plodding at first. But anything that involves the airline industry that gets the attention of the public, it's a sexy issue, and anything with the airlines captivates the attention of the public. And I think we're going to see some pressure on this.

It might start off slow, but we're going to hear about in Congress. We're going to hear about it in the FAA and the DOT. And it may be slow to start, but I think by this summer you're going to see some progress on this issue.

MORRIS: It will be very interesting as we have been looking at our DAYBREAK e-mail question today of whether people feel that the government should get in or stay out. You're so immersed in this story. What has kind of been the anecdotal thing surrounding this?

MUTZABAUGH: Well, you know, the airline industry, with deregulation in 1978, the government keeps going from hands-off to hands-on. Just the financial condition of the airlines has raised a safety consideration. The fact that they're struggling so much for money that are these cuts being made more to financial concerns than to safety concerns? And should the government step in?

And I think at this point there is no real clear consensus on what the government should do. Some people say they should step in to help out with pensions. Other people say hands off. This is a free market. So, I think the jury is still out.

MORRIS: Ben Mutzabaugh, thank you so much for joining us. We're out of time, because we need to move on with still more coming on DAYBREAK. Thanks so much for joining us.

We're about to give away a mug. What lucky viewer yesterday knew what a Bud Light bottle was made of? Plus, today's quiz questions.

But first, famous birthdays for today, Thursday, June 9.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

MORRIS: Good morning. It's 6:53, and here is what will be making news today.

President Bush is pressuring Congress to renew the Patriot Act. In Ohio today, he'll recognize local police who helped catch a man accused of plotting terrorist attacks. Portions of the Patriot Act are set to expire at the end of the year.

And in Nashville, the CMA Music Festival kicks off today. Don't know why the name was changed, because everybody knows it's Fanfair, country's biggest party.

As we have been reporting, two suspects are in custody in Aruba, but little evidence has been found in the search for a missing Alabama teenager. CNN's Bill Hemmer will have much more on this story this morning. And now Chad is standing by. It is, as I said, about 6:54 now. Chad, are you giving away a mug?

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: I'm giving away the mug of the day. The questions yesterday must have been too easy. We had over 500 correct answers. Here are the questions and the answers from yesterday

MORRIS: Oh, my goodness!

MYERS: Yes, exactly. The first question was, how much per hour does the average General Motors worker make? That's 54 bucks. And the new Bud Light bottles are made out of what material? We'll call it a vessel, because it's made out of aluminum, or aluminium (ph) if you prefer. Aluminum is the answer.

The winner from Iowa, Tom Rierson wins the mug today. It's on the way to Iowa. You'll have some storms in Iowa today. You may need the mug tomorrow.

Now it's time for today's questions. How many inspectors were cut from the FAA budget? And number two, what television journalist's remarks prompted activists to protest? Does that say "lactivists?"

MORRIS: Lactivist.

MYERS: Lactivist, yes.

MORRIS: Absolutely.

MYERS: Lactivists to protest. That should give you a better answer, because now you know...

MORRIS: All right, thank you so much, Chad.

We have a report from Karl Penhaul now from Aruba.

Karl, I understand you have some new information.

KARL PENHAUL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Three more arrests have just been made in the case in the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. Searches are under way of their homes at the moment. I've just talked to the island's chief prosecutor, Karen Yenson (ph). She says the three men now arrested are the three people last seen in Natalee Holloway's company, the three people, the three men seen leaving the Carlos 'N Charlie's Mexican Bar with her in the wee hours of Monday morning when she disappeared.

The chief prosecutor said it was too early to say specifically what formal accusations the men would be facing. But she said that they had now been formally arrested.

MORRIS: That latest information that is coming in, does this contain any further information with regard to getting closer to finding where Natalee might be? PENHAUL: At this stage, there is no detail on whether they found, in the course of searching the homes of the three new detainees, there is no clue as to whether they found any signs of Natalee Holloway's whereabouts. But we are expecting either later in the morning or early afternoon a further statement from police and prosecutors to update us on that.

MORRIS: All right, Karl Penhaul reporting from Aruba with this new information. We will continue, of course, to follow this story.

When we come back, more headlines and a look at your travel forecast. This is DAYBREAK for a Thursday morning.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

MORRIS: A fifth member of Lodi, California's, Pakistani community is now behind bars as part of the ongoing terror investigation. Authorities say the suspect is the 19-year-old son of a local Muslim leader, who is also being detained. Both are being held on immigration charges.

On the island of Aruba, word just in. Our Karl Penhaul says three people have been arrested in the disappearance of missing Alabama teen Natalee Holloway. The three arrested were the last three people seen with the young woman. The Alabama teenager disappeared May 30, and extensive land search resumes this morning.

Michael Jackson spent two hours at a hospital for treatment of a back problem overnight. Meanwhile, today, jurors in his trial will only spend part of the day deliberating. That's because some members of the jury have to attend a local graduation ceremony.

(WEATHER REPORT)

MORRIS: From the Time Warner center in New York, I'm Valerie Morris, in for Carol Costello. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.

BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Valerie, thank you and good morning. I'm Bill Hemmer.

Breaking news in Aruba, more arrests just minutes ago in the investigation of the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. A live report coming up just moments away.

TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com.


Aired June 9, 2005 - 06:29   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
ANNOUNCER: From the Time Warner center in New York, this is DAYBREAK, with Carol Costello and Chad Myers.
VALERIE MORRIS, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning to you. I'm Valerie Morris in today for Carol Costello.

Also coming up this half-hour, divorce is on the rise among military couples. We'll look at why it may be harder to keep a military marriage together.

And if safety is a top concern for airlines, why would there be fewer inspectors because of FAA budget cuts?

But first, "Now in the News."

British Foreign Minister Jack Straw made an unannounced visit to Baghdad today. He and two European Union officials met with Iraqi leaders about a conference on developing Iraq. That conference is set for Brussels later this month.

The Senate is expected to vote today on the federal appeals court nomination of Judge William Pryor. He is the last of three nominees that Democrats said could have a final vote as part of the agreement on filibusters.

And Arizona firefighters are battling a fast-moving brush fire. It's charred about 1,000 acres and forced the evacuation of at least 30 people from their homes near the town of Wickenburg.

(WEATHER REPORT)

MORRIS: Moving now to CNN's "Security Watch." A fifth person is in custody as part of that federal terror investigation in Lodi, California.

Let's get more on this latest story from our Chris Lawrence in Lodi -- Chris.

CHRIS LAWRENCE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Yes, good morning, Valerie.

Yesterday, we were telling you that CNN sources and law enforcement were giving us an indication that this wasn't over; that more arrests could follow. And today, we have heard that a fifth person has been detained in the Lodi terrorism investigation.

He is Mohammed Hassan Adil. He's the 19-year-old son of one of the spiritual leaders, who was detained on an immigration violation, like his father and the other spiritual leader.

The spokeswoman would not discuss exactly how he would be tied to the other two men who were arrested, two U.S. citizens, Umer Hayat and his son, Hamid Hayat, who were charged with lying to federal officials about Hamid Hayat's involvement in a terrorist training camp in Pakistan.

MORRIS: A story that has obviously prompted neighbors to say what they feel about these people. It's just so difficult for them to their mind around the fact that these people, their neighbors, could have been involved.

LAWRENCE: That's right. We spoke with several neighbors, one of them Kareena Morrillo (ph), who said in talking about Umer Hayat, who has been in the community for some time, said he was very friendly with the kids, he never did anything to make us believe he was planning something like this.

And we have to remember, when you say the word "terrorism," it has such connotations.

We also spoke with Umer Hayat's attorney, Johnny Griffin, who said, you know, it's important for everyone to push the pause button. He said, he's not charged now with anything that has to do with terrorism. He's only charged with making a false statement to federal agents.

Also, a distinction I'd like to point out also, when we read the original federal affidavit, it listed potential specific targets as hospitals and grocery stores in this alleged plot. So, federal officials are now backing off that statement.

In a press conference yesterday, they indicated that, although they believe acts of terrorism were being planned to be committed against us, they said we don't have exact plans, timing or even specific targets.

And in speaking with District Attorney McGregor Scott, he said that the initial affidavit was a draft. And even though it was regularly referenced throughout the day, there were things in there like specific targets that just were not true.

MORRIS: All right, Chris, thank you.

LAWRENCE: So, the first federal officials are backing off a bit.

MORRIS: It seems that there's lots of paperwork to untangle, and also people need to keep in mind innocent until charged and proven guilty. Christ Lawrence reporting from Lodi, California.

And this reminder to you. Do stay tuned to CNN day and night for the most reliable news about your security.

A new announcement today from Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Let's check in with Carol Costello for a look at what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING." Hi, Carol.

CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning, Valerie.

You're right. A father is the new head of Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Glenn Burch (ph) is the first man ever chosen to head the organization in its 25 year history. Burch (ph) says a personal tragedy led him to the organization. We will hear that story and his plans for the organization as he takes over as head mom.

And just in time for bathing suit season, we're talking diets. The American Heart Association says forget all of the fads. It says it's a simple formula for losing weight called the no-fad diet. Are you listening, Chad Myers? The Atkins Diet is out. In this diet, all you have to do is focus on three central ideas. We'll tell you what they are just ahead on "AMERICAN MORNING."

Back to you -- Valerie.

MORRIS: OK, thank you very much, Carol.

Some sniping is going on outside the jury room at the Michael Jackson trial. The latest twist is a spat over who speaks for the pop star while the jury decides his fate. Spokeswoman Ramone Bain (ph) says Jackson returned to a hospital for some follow-up back pain treatment. Bain (ph) insisted she has the lead attorney's blessing to talk to the media.

However, says Tom Mesereau -- quote: "I have not authorized anyone to speak or hold any press conferences on behalf of Michael Jackson or his family. A gag order is in effect, which the defense team will continue to honor" -- end quote.

Jurors in Jackson's child molestation trial return today. They deliberated for more than three full days without reaching a verdict.

Now to the political hot button issue of Guantanamo Bay. The big question in recent days has been: Should the detention center for suspected terrorists be shut down?

The Bush administration is weighing in with some seemingly conflicting thoughts. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld talked about the issue before heading off to a NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels. He said -- quote -- "I know of no one in the U.S. government in the executive branch that is considering closing Guantanamo" -- end quote.

Meanwhile, President Bush seemed to have left the door open to possible closure in the future, saying on another news network -- quote: "We are exploring all alternatives as to how best to do the main objective, which is to protect America. What we don't want to do is let somebody out that comes back and harms us" -- end quote.

Texas Governor Rick Perry, he's being criticized by gay groups for remarks he made over the weekend. Perry went to a church to sign a proposed amendment banning same-sex marriage, on Sunday he went there. During the ceremony he said, and I am quoting again: "Texans made a decision about marriage. And if there is a state that has more lenient views than Texas, then maybe that's a better place for them to live" -- end quote. Lesbian and gay rights groups are demanding an apology.

Now, few people would argue with this: Keeping a successful marriage going can be a challenge. But when spouses are active-duty soldiers, it takes it to a whole new level of stress, and the divorce rate shows it, as our Jamie McIntyre reports.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

JAMIE MCINTYRE, CNN SENIOR PENTAGON CORRESPONDENT: War is hell on marriages, especially for Army officers who are responsible for two families: their comrades in arms and their spouses at home.

Just look at the numbers from last year. In 2004, 3,325 Army officers' marriages ended in divorce, compared to 1,866 in 2003 and 1,060 in 2002. That's a jump of 78 percent in one year and triple the number from three years ago.

If you combine enlisted soldiers and officers, the numbers are still dramatic. More than 10,000 divorces last year, a jump of more than 3,000 from the year before. That pushes the overall Army divorce rate from just under 3 percent to just over 4 percent.

The Army says the reason is obvious: the stress of combat and long deployments, both in Iraq and Afghanistan.

LT. COL. GERALD NELSON, U.S. ARMY CHAPLAIN: Everyday routine is completely different. They've been told what to do. They know where to go. And they come back, and civilian life is really quite a change.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Welcome home.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thank you, sweetie.

MCINTYRE: Army Major Bob Cabell and his wife, Elizabeth, hope to avoid becoming just another divorce statistic. So, when he returned from Iraq, they enlisted in the Army's "Building Strong and Ready Families Program."

MAJ. BOB CABELL, U.S. ARMY RESERVE: There was a disconnect in our relationship with just general stuff, making decisions and how we do that.

ELIZABETH CABELL, WIFE: Because I didn't stop.

B. CABELL: Me trying to fit in...

E. CABELL: Right, yes.

B. CABELL: Me trying to be the round peg in the square hole.

MCINTYRE: With Internet and cell phone technology, it's easier for soldiers to keep in touch from the battlefield, but experts say that doesn't always help a shaky marriage.

KATHLEEN MOAKLER, NATION MILITARY FAMILY ASSN: Communication is both a blessing and a curse, because the service members know more about what's going on at home, and the families know more about what's going on in the field. And while for many that's a comfort, for others, it could be a detriment, because it gives them more to worry about.

MCINTYRE (on camera): The Army says it is well aware of the strain that long and dangerous deployments put on families. And it has a number of counseling and education programs aimed at keeping marriages together. But experts say that doesn't change one essential fact: It's not easy being married to a soldier serving in a faraway war zone.

Jamie McIntyre, CNN, the Pentagon.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

MORRIS: Still to come, are the major airlines putting costs above your safety? Some answers when DAYBREAK continues.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

MORRIS: The international markets are down today. Tokyo's Nikkei is down 120 points. The London FTSE is down nearly 18. And the German DAX is down about 15.

Your news, money, weather and sports. Hello again, everyone. It is 6:44, and here's what's all new this morning.

A fifth person has been detained in connection with a terrorism investigation in California. Authorities say a 19-year-old is being held on immigration charges.

In money, the home shared by June and Johnny Cash is up for sale. Eighteen rooms, a lake, a swimming pool, seven bedrooms and more, all for 2.9 million. The home, of course, is near Nashville.

In culture, a couple of ride vehicles from two of Disneyland's opening attractions way back in 1955 have been taken to Washington. They're going on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.

In sports, the NHL could be closer to ending the lockout that spoiled last season. The Toronto "Globe and Mail" reports the owners and players' union have agreed on a salary cap, which was a major obstacle in their labor talks.

(WEATHER REPORT)

MORRIS: We have talking a lot this morning about a report, not about our skies when it comes to weather, but our skies because they may be unsafe. The focus of this report is airline inspections, both from FAA inspectors and outsourced maintenance crews.

"USA Today" travel reporter Ben Mutzabaugh joins us now from Washington.

Ben, could you please shed a little more light on this report?

BEN MUTZABAUGH, "USA TODAY" TRAVEL REPORTER: Sure. Good morning.

MORRIS: Good morning to you.

MUTZABAUGH: This report raises a number of issues. One of them is airlines have been increasingly outsourcing a lot of their maintenance work, heavy maintenance work in particular, that's done on their big jets. And for a while now, we've been hearing from labor groups, who are concerned that this maintenance may not be subjected to the same scrutiny that the airlines' in-house work is done. And, of course, that has implications for how safe is the plane that you might be flying on?

And it turns out, apparently, where there is smoke there is fire, because after several months of people raising flags about this, here you get the Department of Transportation's report on this, where they say, yes, this may be a problem.

MORRIS: It may be a problem. And I think that if people are at all concerned about their safety when they travel, which obviously is what everyone is, I think passengers want to know, how does this translate then for how secure we should feel taking to the skies?

MUTZABAUGH: Well, you know, and that's where the FAA -- the FAA was pretty much slammed in this report. That's what the DOT said the FAA was maybe somewhat lax in some of their inspections.

But what the FAA rebuts by saying is you know what? This is the safest period in aviation history in the United States. There hasn't been a crash of a single major plane, of a big aircraft in years. So, they're saying, well, if something is broken, it's clearly not impacting safety in the skies.

Of course, the critics, including the people who put out this report, are saying, yes, there hasn't been any major accidents recently. But we've seen some close calls and some of this maintenance out-work, short staffing with the FAA inspectors, this certainly creates the possibility that something could be looming.

MORRIS: Ben, can you say something that then is going to reassure people who are traveling? I mean, what should people take away from this?

MUTZABAUGH: Well, the good news is now there has been a light shined on this issue. So, if there are any issues that need to be worked out, anything that the government needs to know or the FAA needs to improve, you'd better believe it's going to be in the spotlight now. And everyone from labor groups to passengers' rights groups are going to be pushing the government to make sure that this string of success and safety in the sky keeps going forward.

MORRIS: And how quickly is this going to be implemented? MUTZABAUGH: Well, of course, it is the government, so there is no telling on how quickly this will move along. So, I suspect it will be plodding at first. But anything that involves the airline industry that gets the attention of the public, it's a sexy issue, and anything with the airlines captivates the attention of the public. And I think we're going to see some pressure on this.

It might start off slow, but we're going to hear about in Congress. We're going to hear about it in the FAA and the DOT. And it may be slow to start, but I think by this summer you're going to see some progress on this issue.

MORRIS: It will be very interesting as we have been looking at our DAYBREAK e-mail question today of whether people feel that the government should get in or stay out. You're so immersed in this story. What has kind of been the anecdotal thing surrounding this?

MUTZABAUGH: Well, you know, the airline industry, with deregulation in 1978, the government keeps going from hands-off to hands-on. Just the financial condition of the airlines has raised a safety consideration. The fact that they're struggling so much for money that are these cuts being made more to financial concerns than to safety concerns? And should the government step in?

And I think at this point there is no real clear consensus on what the government should do. Some people say they should step in to help out with pensions. Other people say hands off. This is a free market. So, I think the jury is still out.

MORRIS: Ben Mutzabaugh, thank you so much for joining us. We're out of time, because we need to move on with still more coming on DAYBREAK. Thanks so much for joining us.

We're about to give away a mug. What lucky viewer yesterday knew what a Bud Light bottle was made of? Plus, today's quiz questions.

But first, famous birthdays for today, Thursday, June 9.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

MORRIS: Good morning. It's 6:53, and here is what will be making news today.

President Bush is pressuring Congress to renew the Patriot Act. In Ohio today, he'll recognize local police who helped catch a man accused of plotting terrorist attacks. Portions of the Patriot Act are set to expire at the end of the year.

And in Nashville, the CMA Music Festival kicks off today. Don't know why the name was changed, because everybody knows it's Fanfair, country's biggest party.

As we have been reporting, two suspects are in custody in Aruba, but little evidence has been found in the search for a missing Alabama teenager. CNN's Bill Hemmer will have much more on this story this morning. And now Chad is standing by. It is, as I said, about 6:54 now. Chad, are you giving away a mug?

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: I'm giving away the mug of the day. The questions yesterday must have been too easy. We had over 500 correct answers. Here are the questions and the answers from yesterday

MORRIS: Oh, my goodness!

MYERS: Yes, exactly. The first question was, how much per hour does the average General Motors worker make? That's 54 bucks. And the new Bud Light bottles are made out of what material? We'll call it a vessel, because it's made out of aluminum, or aluminium (ph) if you prefer. Aluminum is the answer.

The winner from Iowa, Tom Rierson wins the mug today. It's on the way to Iowa. You'll have some storms in Iowa today. You may need the mug tomorrow.

Now it's time for today's questions. How many inspectors were cut from the FAA budget? And number two, what television journalist's remarks prompted activists to protest? Does that say "lactivists?"

MORRIS: Lactivist.

MYERS: Lactivist, yes.

MORRIS: Absolutely.

MYERS: Lactivists to protest. That should give you a better answer, because now you know...

MORRIS: All right, thank you so much, Chad.

We have a report from Karl Penhaul now from Aruba.

Karl, I understand you have some new information.

KARL PENHAUL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Three more arrests have just been made in the case in the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. Searches are under way of their homes at the moment. I've just talked to the island's chief prosecutor, Karen Yenson (ph). She says the three men now arrested are the three people last seen in Natalee Holloway's company, the three people, the three men seen leaving the Carlos 'N Charlie's Mexican Bar with her in the wee hours of Monday morning when she disappeared.

The chief prosecutor said it was too early to say specifically what formal accusations the men would be facing. But she said that they had now been formally arrested.

MORRIS: That latest information that is coming in, does this contain any further information with regard to getting closer to finding where Natalee might be? PENHAUL: At this stage, there is no detail on whether they found, in the course of searching the homes of the three new detainees, there is no clue as to whether they found any signs of Natalee Holloway's whereabouts. But we are expecting either later in the morning or early afternoon a further statement from police and prosecutors to update us on that.

MORRIS: All right, Karl Penhaul reporting from Aruba with this new information. We will continue, of course, to follow this story.

When we come back, more headlines and a look at your travel forecast. This is DAYBREAK for a Thursday morning.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

MORRIS: A fifth member of Lodi, California's, Pakistani community is now behind bars as part of the ongoing terror investigation. Authorities say the suspect is the 19-year-old son of a local Muslim leader, who is also being detained. Both are being held on immigration charges.

On the island of Aruba, word just in. Our Karl Penhaul says three people have been arrested in the disappearance of missing Alabama teen Natalee Holloway. The three arrested were the last three people seen with the young woman. The Alabama teenager disappeared May 30, and extensive land search resumes this morning.

Michael Jackson spent two hours at a hospital for treatment of a back problem overnight. Meanwhile, today, jurors in his trial will only spend part of the day deliberating. That's because some members of the jury have to attend a local graduation ceremony.

(WEATHER REPORT)

MORRIS: From the Time Warner center in New York, I'm Valerie Morris, in for Carol Costello. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.

BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Valerie, thank you and good morning. I'm Bill Hemmer.

Breaking news in Aruba, more arrests just minutes ago in the investigation of the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. A live report coming up just moments away.

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