I would like to thank you, Senator, and the Committee for having this hearing and look forward to working with you, if confirmed.

Every day I was reminded of what made our country the greatest in the world: the sacrifice of our warriors.

I served on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee and I am often reminded of President Lincoln's promise, 'To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan.'

President Obama and Secretary of Labor Perez are committed to ensuring that the brave warriors who serve this country have the employment support, assistance and opportunities they need and deserve.

I definitely will miss this committee and the work that this committee has done over a number of years.

Today's hearing provides us with the opportunity to continue this discussion.

I really appreciate the efforts that you have done to make this committee a bipartisan committee.

The VA's goal of ending veteran homelessness by the end of 2015 is an ambitious goal.

Thanks very much, Mr. Chairman. Before I ask the question from Ms. Pape, I want to thank you and the many employees at the VA for your efforts to care for our veterans and to serve our veterans as well all across the country.

I think too often the media headlines level broad accusation against all VA employees, not just the ones who are--have bad performance issues.

My question is: It seems that further reduction in homelessness will become increasingly difficult as the more severely mental ill and substance-dependent veterans are treated and housed.