I hope that we can put to rest any notion that the Department of Defense is withholding information that could positively impact these veterans' claims.

However, we can't simply apply the principle of one-size-fits-all approach to the claims.

Any impediments to veterans who might show clear and irrefutable evidence that they should be granted benefits, should be considered.

The men and women that we are discussing today fought on behalf of our Nation and they should receive the same benefit of the doubt that U.S. servicemembers receive when they are asking for benefits that they earned.

Continued claims of 'misunderstanding' are simply not believable--even if they were, it would show such a level of gross incompetence that disciplinary action would be necessary.

I am convinced that change is neither desired, nor sought, by complacent management in Philadelphia.

What I heard in your testimony about the Philadelphia RO disappoints me greatly, but, frankly, doesn't surprise me.

the incompetence of Congress to be able to address that issue is going to create a massive issue.

one of the biggest national security threats is our debt.

Just one last thing. You also note that the VA does not track the number of claims eligible for ACE that requires additional evidence obtained through telephone interviews or whether private medical evidence is sufficient for rating…

I would like to once again state that it is unfortunate that we have to pass such a bill each year