Daniel Akaka

Failure simply is not an option with this program.

I want you to know that we are supporting you as much as we can and we want to bring this about for the benefit of our veterans.

We certainly are looking forward to a time when we can improve these systems.

DOD should be prepared to provide the bulk of the response to a major catastrophe that incapacitates civilian government over a substantial geographic area.

I'm encouraged that the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRRP) will go a long way in addressing this issue.

I continue to have concerns about the effectiveness of VA's outreach efforts, especially as it applies to those who suffer from PTSD and TBI.

The greatest causes of cost growth, after program initiation, are budget changes (often caused by Congress) and 'requirements' changes--both of which can be controlled by discipline.

The capability portfolio managers lack the necessary authority and control required to be successful.

DOD identified nine joint capability area portfolios to mitigate the tendency to develop Service-centric, stovepiped solutions.

The Joint Requirement Oversight Council (JROC) seeks input from the combatant commanders

For me over the years, I'm beginning to feel that we need to change, or try to change, the heart and soul of DOD.

VA was made aware of this fire and potential exposures in March 2009.

We cannot have them dumped on our system not having any treatment for their mental illnesses.

We need to ensure that the VA has access to, or can arrange, geographically dispersed crisis beds.

Yes. Well, there is no question telehealth services need to be expanded.

There is no pure military solution to the challenges we face in Afghanistan.

Thank you very much.

I have long been concerned that our Nation is not prepared adequately for a pandemic.

We really have to find answers. It is not only for me. It is not only the economic crisis; it is also going to be a crisis of personnel in the government.

There is no question that our Federal Government is facing a huge challenge, not only for veterinarians but throughout the system.

I agree with Senator Voinovich that we should have a follow-up session with you and to see where you are maybe after the March 16 meeting.

What are we going to do about the future?

Either reports that came out were inadequate so that the Office of Personnel Management didn't know what the situation was.

Dr. Parker, according to the GAO report, a 2007 Food and Drug Administration Science Advisory Report concluded that the Center for Veterinary Medicine was in a state of crisis because of inadequate staffing, training, and resources.

Ms. Shames, the GAO report revealed that several veterinarians working in slaughter plants said that they were not always able to meet their responsibilities and perform high-quality work because of inadequate staffing.