They deserve to have the same benefits that post-9/11 veterans do when they are dealing with the most serious injuries, illnesses, and wounds.

They are not acknowledged for what they are doing, and they are receiving very, very little in the way of services.

And once they connect, even with just one other person, one other caregiver, it is like magic.

It is vitally important. We find that when a caregiver is so isolated, so alone, they do not know there are others out there.

Senator Elizabeth Dole has encouraged us to be 'solutionists,' and so we are, with each other and with other caregivers.

Chairman Collins, I owe you special thanks for your support of key legislation and the Hidden Heroes Caucus.

By doing so, the Committee demonstrates its dedication to recognizing our Nation's military and veteran caregivers.

I think that is something where we come back to the respite. It is so very important to give them a chance to just break away a little bit and to be able to recharge their batteries.

I established the Elizabeth Dole Foundation in 2012 to raise awareness and support for these hidden heroes.

I think our earlier RAND research also pointed this out, that many of them do not see themselves as a caregiver.

The best chance for a wounded warrior to recover and thrive is having a strong, well-supported caregiver.