Clearly, this legislation has brought together a number of unlikely allies in support of our Nation's veterans.

I understand that in the current economic situation we are faced with it is especially important to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

Traumatic brain injuries are among the most complex injuries our personnel have sustained.

I believe that by caring for our Nation's veterans suffering from the hidden wounds of PTSD while at the same time providing assistance dogs to those with physical disabilities we create a win-win for everyone.

Unprecedented numbers of warriors are returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan with severe polytraumatic injuries.

I want to thank Chairwoman Buerkle, Ranking Member Michaud, and Members of the Subcommittee for giving me the opportunity to appear before you today to discuss my bill, H.R. 1855, the Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitative Services Improvements Act of 2011.

Reflecting on the needs of many of those veterans, I introduced legislation late last year, together with Chairman Miller and Congressman Bilirakis, to help some of our most severely injured, those with traumatic brain injury.

It is a deep privilege to be a Member of a Committee devoted to serving those who have served our country.

AMVETS applauds Congressmen Walz and Bilirakis for their initiative, through the introduction of H.R. 1855.

I am pleased to sponsor this legislation with our Chairman, Jeff Miller, and with Ranking Members Bob Filner and Mike Michaud as co-sponsors.

But for it to be found in what should be an environment of caring for our honored veterans is simply intolerable and unacceptable.