David Roe: “I feel personally familiar with the health needs of our Nation's veterans, and I am committed to meeting those needs.”

I think one of the most distressing statistics I heard during our roundtable in Tennessee was that the second-leading cause of death between the ages of 10 and 34 is suicide.

Now, don't just ask me that. Go back and read the words of the people that founded this country and put together our Constitution.

But I am mindful of something Rahm Emanuel said when he was chief of staff to President Obama in 2009. He said you never let a serious crisis go to waste. I am afraid some of us are doing that here.

Do not imply, Mr. Secretary, I care any less about the veterans who are committing suicide. I have declared suicide prevention to be the No. 1 priority of this committee.