Thank you Chairman Michaud, Ranking Member Miller and distinguished members of this subcommittee. 

This is a great opportunity for our committee to address issues relating to our nation’s disabled veterans.

As a proud veteran myself, I know that U.S. servicemen put their lives on the line while they serve in and out of combat.

As the son of a veteran and the father of a veteran, I understand the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform. 

Soldiers enlist in the military with the understanding that they will have access to healthcare after their retirement from the armed services. 

Sadly, this promise is often broken forcing some of our most honorable citizens to suffer needlessly.

Looking at the services we currently have in place to care for our disabled troops and veterans is an important conversation for us to have.

Mr. Chairman, I thank you and the members of this subcommittee for the opportunity to review issues that improve the lives of our brave disabled veterans.