Robert C. Byrd: “The brain drain is probably the most insidious weapon that is pointed to the heart of this Nation.”

The Department is firmly committed to working closely and openly with Congress in order to protect the health of our servicemembers.

In closing, may I say that the President's request includes $658 million for construction of the U.S. Embassy in Iraq.

Why should Congress not have some limitations on this? It is the taxpayers' money.

Our service men and women, now more than ever, are depending on your leadership to put the military medical system on a new track.