House Committee on Veterans' Affairs

For more information, contact: Brian Lawrence, (202) 225-3527

Washington D.C. — Today, House Republicans unanimously approved Steve Buyer (R-Ind.) as Ranking Member of the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

“One of the great honors of serving in Congress is helping to meet the needs of the courageous men and women who defend our freedom and protect our country,” Buyer said. “There is no greater privilege than serving our veterans, and I am honored that my colleagues have once again given me this opportunity.”

Congressman Buyer is himself a veteran. A 1980 distinguished military graduate of The Citadel, Buyer is a career Army Reserve officer and he continues to serve as a colonel. Buyer’s military experience has afforded him considerable insight for the committee assignments he has held as a member of Congress. As Chairman of the House Armed Services Military Personnel Subcommittee, he championed the TRICARE-for-Life and the Senior Pharmacy entitlement program for Medicare-eligible military retirees--one of the most comprehensive prescription drug benefit plans in history.

In January 2005, Buyer was appointed Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. Since coming to Congress, his priorities have been to ensure that veterans with service-connected disabilities, those with special needs, and those who are indigent receive the best care. He is also committed to providing a seamless process for servicemembers as they make the transition from military to civilian life.

Buyer was recently honored by the Paralyzed Veterans of America when he was awarded the 2008 Public Service Award, and he was also the recipient of the Gold Star Wives of America 2008 Appreciation Award.

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