Committee hears legislative views of millions of veterans

Veterans of Foreign Wars Commander-in-Chief, Mr. Gary Kurpius testified to "one of the highest priorities of the VFW" to be, the healthcare, in particular the mental health care of servicemembers returning from conflicts overseas.

National Commander of AMVETS (American Veterans), Mr. Tom McGriff listened to Chairman Buyer's question of AMVETS stance on current legislation to allow veterans to hire private attorneys to represent veterans in the claims process.

National Commander of Disabled American Veterans, Mr. Bradley S. Barton listened as his colleague Mr. Kurpius of VFW provided testimony.

Director of Government Relations for the Blinded Veterans Association, Tom Zampieri, Ph.D. testified to his association's concern that studies show servicemembers are experiencing greater eye injuries which coincide with the increase in traumatic brain injuries (TBI). He added that BVA seeks greater funding for TBI research.

President and CEO of the Non Commissioned Officers Association, retired Sgt. Maj. H. Gene Overstreet, USMC, testified to the need for reform at the Department of Defense to work more closely with VA on transferring electronic medical records and an interoperable IT system.

National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Mr.. Tom Poulter, said that passing legislation to allow veterans to hire a private attorney would complicate the claims system.

Executive Director of Paralyzed Veterans of America, Mr. Louis Irvin, spoke to their memberships appreciation for the committee's efforts to increase healthcare staff but remain disappointed by the lack of funding to support that movement. Irvin also said they would like to see a greater focus on construction projects for VA medical centers.

Chair of the Gold Star Wives of America, Inc., Ms. Rose E. Lee, advocated on behalf of surviving spouses and their children.

Director of Legislative Programs for the Fleet Reserve Association, Mr. John R. Davis, said he is pleased with Chairman Buyer's efforts to achieve greater accountability within the VA IT department and lauds committee work to move H.R. 5835, the Veterans' Identity and Credit Security Act of 2006 through the House.

National President of Vietnam Veterans of America, Mr. John Rowan, commended Buyer for, "pushing VA forward," advancing the movement for greater security of veterans' personal data in the VA IT department. Rowan also testified to VVA's concern that the backlog of disability compensation claims is not being adequately addressed.

National Commander of The American Legion, Mr. Paul Morin said that if legislation for veterans' to chose to hire a private attorney moves forward, the Legion would support adequate safeguards for certification requirements, enforcement of limited attorney fees as well as strict oversight of this new process.

House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Steve Buyer (R- Ind.) enjoyed a laugh with those in attendance at the September 20 hearing, as VFW Commander in Chief, Gary Kurpius shares memories while on active duty.

Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs Chairman Jeff Miller (R-Fla.) listened to panelists at today's hearing.

 

Please visit our website at http://veterans.house.gov