Saxton and Principi will address leaders of various veteran organizations such as the VFW, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and other veteran and community leaders on the top issues confronting American veterans. Due to space constraints, the meeting is closed to the public, but is open to the media.

"It will be a pleasure to host a cabinet-level official on Fort Dix," Saxton said. "South Jersey has a high concentration of veterans. It will be interesting to hear what the Secretary has to say about the issues concerning the leaders of our veterans organizations. Our aim is to have the Secretary hear what's on the minds of our veterans groups, as well as have the Secretary's views brought back to the veteran posts and spread to their membership. It should be a good exchange."

Such issues as VA access, length of waiting times, medical care, vet benefits and other topics are expected to be brought up.

Secretary Principi will speak briefly before participating in a question-and-answer session with the veteran leaders. Afterward the Secretary will be available briefly for reporters before heading off to tour Fort Dix's popular VA Clinic, which was opened in 1997 with federal funding Saxton helped acquire. The clinic has been so successful it has had to expand to meet the needs of area veterans.

The program will begin at 10 a.m. in the post's large hall in Club Dix. The program will conclude at 11:30 a.m., followed by a 15 minute tour of the clinic where Secretary Principi will converse with clinic staff and veterans using the clinic. Reporters or photographers may accompany Principi on the tour.

Due to the on-going war on terrorism, Fort Dix (previously an open post) has adopted security measures restricting access. Reporters or photographers should arrive at the gate at Route 68 and Saylors Pond Road by 9:30 a.m. and present press credentials. They will be escorted to event by Fort Dix personnel.