Thank you Chairman Collins, Ranking Member Casey, and members of the committee for calling today's hearing.

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

Well, the RAND report has told us that the military and veteran caregivers are experiencing a much higher rate of negative health consequences as a result of their caregiving services.

Their strength was incredible. Yet, I could see they were carrying an emotional weight almost too heavy to bear.

There is also an economic argument for supporting military caregivers.

Our country made a sacred vow to serve those who have borne the battle.

You are sending a very powerful signal that our Nation's leaders must stand with America's military caregivers.

Most Americans have no idea what is going on in military homes today.

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.

We are finding out that there are more connections between certain diseases and military service, such as ALS, than we ever realized.

Supporting our servicemembers means more than providing the equipment and training necessary for fighting. . . . We should also support their livelihood and their families, and predatory lending can seriously harm both.