On the recordMay 26, 2011
Mr. Speaker, this Monday, Memorial Day, will give citizens from around the country the opportunity to come together and remember those who have laid down their lives in defense of our freedom. The debt we owe our Nation's servicemembers and veterans is immeasurable. Therefore, it's fitting to honor those heroes by renewing our commitment in this House to caring for those servicemembers both while they are in the military and after they return home. As a 24-year veteran of our armed services, I am proud of the work we have done in Congress to support our veteran servicemembers: Passed landmark budgets worthy of our veterans; made sure the VA health care budget was delivered a year in advance; expanded VA health care access for returning combat veterans; increased support for veteran caregivers; passed a 21st century GI bill and continue to improve upon it; and enhanced employment opportunities. Although we have come a long way, our work is never done. We must make sure that our returning troops do not fall through the cracks and that they make the transition to civilian life with the full support of this Nation. On behalf of that grateful Nation, we thank our current servicemembers, our veterans, and their families for their service. ____________________





