Carter Remarks at Oversight Hearing on Quality of Life in the Military

Good morning. Today’s hearing is on the quality of life for our enlisted soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen, guardians, and their families. 

The five witnesses at the table represent the highest enlisted level of leadership for their respective branches. This group’s insight is critical. This hearing is a great opportunity to identify areas where we can be more helpful to our service members and their families. 

Most importantly this hearing happens during a time of major combat operations. It is this Committee’s solemn duty to serve the people who are putting their lives at risk in support of Operation Epic Fury. I want to express my deepest condolences to the families of the soldiers and airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of our country.  We hold this hearing to ensure the needs of their families, and the needs of all service-members and their families, are heard and met.