Good morning, folks. Before we get into the witnesses and the discussion today, I will just point out that we've got business for about half an hour at the end, so we have about an hour and a half with these particular witnesses.
I'd like to start by welcoming back Bernard Butler and Charlotte Stewart from Veterans Affairs. As everybody is aware, we have determined that we will proceed with our next study, and as part of that study we've agreed that it's only appropriate that we hear witnesses from the department to discuss some of the issues that are forthcoming.
As you know, Mr. Butler, the standard is that we allow about 10 minutes for opening comments and then we get into questions and answers. I think you're quite familiar with that routine by now.
So thank you for coming this morning.