On the recordOctober 5, 2011
I have the great privilege, and really the honor, of representing the largest concentration of active duty and retired military members in the country; and it's a true honor to defend those who wear our Nation's uniform and to speak boldly on behalf of our veterans. Today, I rise to address a recent decision by the Department of Defense regarding TRICARE. The DOD has increased fees for those enrolling in TRICARE Prime after October 1, 2011. Mr. Speaker, this action is nothing less than a breach of trust between this great Nation and its veterans. Career members of the uniformed services and their families make incredible sacrifices over the course of long careers defending our freedom. They honored their commitment and exceeded what they told us that they would do. They have served with distinction. We need to honor our commitment to each of them. So I call on the Department of Defense to reverse its decision and to honor its promise to our veterans. ____________________
