George Butterfield actually said...

"I would stipulate that the President was aware of this change in policy, and he would be derelict if he was not aware of the change."

"For the past three Congresses, I have led a strong bipartisan effort to recognize individuals that served our country during World War II in the Merchant Marine."

"My bill does not provide for health coverage, disability payments, or payouts of any kind to Merchant Mariners who served during World War II and does not impact direct spending."

"Seeing this bill signed into law is a personal priority and I am hopeful that this hearing signals that I am one step closer to achieving that goal on behalf of World War II Merchant Mariners."