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DEMOCRATIC PRESS RELEASE

March 2, 2007

Filner Statement on Walter Reed Army Medical Center

Washington, D.C. – House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA) released the following statement today regarding the removal of the Commander of Walter Reed Army Medical Center:

“It is high time the Pentagon has admitted its mistake and taken action to improve outpatient care at Walter Reed. The removal of Army Major General George W. Weightman as the commander at Walter Reed is the first step in accepting responsibility for the treatment of our wounded soldiers.

“The events reported at Walter Reed were a break in faith with our troops. We must be able to rely on the chain of command in order to address the serious problems not only at Walter Reed, but at the military facilities across the country.

“My concerns are focused on how we serve our troops when they turn from the Pentagon to the VA for their healthcare. In order for our troops to experience the seamless transition they deserve, the bureaucratic problems that prevent many from getting the care they need must be fixed.

“I am committed to preventing similar situations to Walter Reed from striking the VA system. Clearly, we need an oversight and inspection system that is separate from the agency that is being overseen.”

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Larry Scott

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