“The system that exists for these individuals is complex,’ said Subcommittee Ranking Member Vic Snyder (AR). “And that has led to many of the difficulties we have heard about today. Our job is to find a way to address the individual components of the system so that the already complicated process of transitioning back into normal life is not made worse by the system itself.”

“We owe it to the brave service members who put their lives on the line for our country to provide them the best care possible as they transition back into civilian life,” said Rep. Marty Meehan (MA). “This means giving them the best physical and mental health care, job training, housing, and education they need to live productive lives.”

“Last Congress, I introduced the HEROES bill to provide wounded service members with the benefits they need during this transition,” Meehan continued. “I'm pleased that the military has followed through and expanded their screening for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure that all wounded service members get the care and services they deserve.”

“I am very concerned that our military families are being saddled with extensive financial burdens to care for injured service members,” commented Rep. Loretta Sanchez (CA). “In addition to the cost of traveling to visit a wounded family member at a moment's notice, I am particularly concerned that we are not doing enough to compensate our most severely disabled soldiers and their families for their sacrifice. These are problems that warrant this Committee’s attention this year.

“We have heard today that there seems to be a distinction made between our active duty and reserve components when they enter into this transitional phase,” said Rep. Susan Davis (CA). “Our gratitude as a nation is shared equally between these brave men and women. The respect we show them when they return home should be no different.”

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