Would engaging with Puntland without the consent of the TFG or Somaliland send a negative signal?

I too want to applaud Secretary Gates's focus on restoring budget discipline in the DOD.

I agree with Secretary Gates' insight to leverage the capabilities that are conducive to our ever-changing operational environment.

We can be smart enough and bold enough to say it has got to be different in the future.

But to accept that is to accept that there was an intent on the part of Members of Congress that wrote this to force the property in a family of a servicemember to all be listed in the servicemember's name.

The only mistake that we can possibly make is to do nothing and to accept the status quo as the benefit package that today's generation of warriors is going to receive for the rest of their life.

We are recognizing that there is a changing face of the modern battlefield.

I have deep respect for what you do. This is not an issue that popped up yesterday.

All servicemembers need to be treated with the same hand.

So let me just ask real quick as it relates to severe Traumatic Brain Injuries and the need to get access to aid and attendance benefits, if they need them.

It is way too complicated, way too difficult, and it does not reimburse the individuals adequately.

We've now had several commissions over 50 years talking about the need to reform our disability compensation.

Senator Burr's bill, Military Spouses Residency Relief Act.

Mr. Hipolit, would you agree with the Disability Commission that aid and attendance benefits currently do not focus on those individuals with cognitive impairments?

Mr. Chairman--I thank the Chairman and I would ask unanimous consent that my statement be part of the record.

As Ranking Member Burr pointed out, we need to continue to examine the Rating Schedule.

We have made a long-term strategic blunder if we do that.

the current situation has left many military spouses feeling they are perceived as excess baggage.