Veterans have given and sacrificed immensely to secure the fundamental liberties of our great country and to establish the United States as a global leader. Their unwavering service has sustained democracy and bolstered freedom around the world. We owe them and their families a great debt.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), of the 25 million veterans currently alive, nearly three out of every four served during a war or an official period of hostility. About a quarter of the nation's population, approximately 70 million people, are potentially eligible for VA benefits and services because they are veterans, family members or survivors of veterans.

With such a large population to serve, it is critical that the VA delivers the support that our Veterans need. I also believe that Congress can increase its oversight of the VA healthcare system to ensure that our veterans are receiving the best possible medical care available.