Elizabeth Esty: “I want to thank our witnesses for joining us here today for this important hearing.”

I want to thank Chairman Roe and Chairman Isakson and Ranking Members Tester and Walz, in particular for their efforts on the Blue Water Navy veterans.

I hope we can take the lessons that are being learned there and make sure that those are used every time with forward-going programs.

I am strongly urging this big new class of freshmen Members of Congress, whether they serve on this Committee or not, to honor that commitment to our Nation's veterans.

I want to thank the under secretary and his team for staying.