Phil Gingrey: “I would again like to thank Subcommittee Chairman Walsh, ranking minority member Edwards, and Chairman Lewis for leading…”

“I would again like to thank Subcommittee Chairman Walsh, ranking minority member Edwards, and Chairman Lewis for leading the committee in the production and shepherding of this bill. We can never do enough for our veterans. I think we all want to, but understand that this bill represents a victory for our serviceman and women in all stages of service, from recruitment to retirement. I encourage my colleagues to support this rule and underlying bill. And so I rise, again, in support of the rule, and as I say, in support of the underlying bill in recognition of its importance to the men and women who have and will continue to serve and protect America. Our servicemen and women put their lives on the line each and every day and we have a responsibility to support them in any and every way possible as they make these significant sacrifices for the safety and security of this great Nation. We must provide them with everything that they need, not only to succeed in their military duty, but also to enjoy the quality of life that they and their families so much deserve. Again, Mr. Speaker, with spending totaling $94.7 billion, this bill includes significant increases to the veterans medical care and benefits, military construction and the Defense Health Care Program. I encourage, then, my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support both this rule and the underlying bill for the sake of those who spend their lives defending ours.”