Thank you Mr. Chairman. 

I would like to thank the representatives of the Veterans of Foreign Wars for appearing before the Joint Committee today.  Specifically, I would like to recognize those of you who are here from the great state of Florida.  Thank you for making the trip up to Washington, D.C. to speak to us today. 

I look forward to hearing your legislative proposals for the second session of the 110th Congress.  As many of you know, the 5th District of Florida is home to over 107,000 veterans, the second most of any Member of the House of Representatives.  With this many veterans in my district, I have an extraordinary responsibility to see that the needs of veterans are being met through legislation and strong oversight of the Department of Veterans Affairs. 

Since coming Congress in 2003, I have seen firsthand the commitment to ensure veterans receive the benefits and care they deserve.  Through record budgets and legislative changes, Congress has shown its eagerness to assist veterans across the country.  These advances are in part thanks to the guidance and expertise of the vast membership of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Once again, I welcome you to the Committee hearing today, and look forward to hearing your thoughts and proposals.