(Washington) – Congressman John B. Larson released the following statement today after President Barack Obama announced Linda Schwartz, Connecticut Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, as his nominee for Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Policy and Planning:

"With troops home from Iraq and continuing to return from Afghanistan, our nation faces a number of challenges that require the type of experience and expertise very few leaders possess. Linda's years of experience working within the Armed Services along with her successful record of advocacy on behalf of veterans' rights make her the type of leader our nation needs to better support the veteran community. An active member of the First Congressional District Military and Veterans Advisory council, Linda understands the concerns of veterans in New England and what needs to be done to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve.

"I applaud Commissioner Schwartz's nomination today and know her steadfast leadership and drive to improve the lives of veterans in Connecticut and across the country make her the best choice for Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs."

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