Elizabeth Dole

There is an also an economic argument for supporting military caregivers. They provide nearly $14 billion dollars a year as an unpaid, voluntary workforce.

I think that is something where we come back to the respite. It is so very important to give them a chance to just break away a little bit and to be able to recharge their batteries.

Without their bravery, the injuries would have been far, far worse.

RAND's experts concluded that the most important factor to a wounded warrior's recovery or improvement was a well-supported caregiver.

By doing so, the Committee demonstrates its dedication to recognizing our Nation's military and veteran caregivers.

Chairman Collins, I owe you special thanks for your support of key legislation and the Hidden Heroes Caucus.

Senator Elizabeth Dole has encouraged us to be 'solutionists,' and so we are, with each other and with other caregivers.

Hidden Heroes Cities, the idea is we now have 100 cities, and we continue to grow these.

It is vitally important. We find that when a caregiver is so isolated, so alone, they do not know there are others out there.

Well, you know, may I add that we have been really proposing this legislation for several years. It would be so nice to see it passed before the end of the year, please.

I ask you again, members of the Committee, and all of you here today to give your full support to the military caregivers serving our Nation.

I established the Elizabeth Dole Foundation in 2012 to raise awareness and support for these hidden heroes.