Our veterans have devoted their lives to protecting Americans and the freedoms we enjoy. Having had the privilege to work with many veterans and servicemen and women, I know there is nothing they would not give to protect the people of this country. They are the truly American heroes.

During the 107th Congress, Congress worked closely with veteran advocacy groups to enact meaningful legislation that would improve the quality fo life for veterans across the nation. That legislative action included: the Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001 (P.L. 107-103); the Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001 (P.L. 107-95); the Department of Veterans Affairs Emergency Preparedness Act of 2002 (P.L. 107-287); and the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 (P.L. 107-135).

Over the next two years Congress will continue to pursue legislation to provide veterans’ the benefits that they have earned. On the issue of concurrent receipt, I will continue to support proposals allowing veterans concurrent receipt of military retired pay and VA disability compensation. Until the concurrent receipt of veterans’ benefits is available, veterans will be eligible for a new benefit program in the Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year FY2003, which I supported and the president signed into law, that will create new payments for military retirees with service related disabilities. Additionally, I will continue to work to ensure that veterans receive the health care benefits that they deserve. The goals and the sense of service and dedication that our veterans have shown us will be the principles that guide our service to each of them.