BURLINGTON, Vt., May 23 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee chairman,  issued the following statement:

“On this Memorial Day weekend, I want to thank all veterans who have put their lives on the line to defend our country and especially the families of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. On this solemn occasion, Congress must reaffirm its commitment to make sure that every veteran in this country and their families get the health care and other benefits that they have earned and deserve.

“During the past several years, we have made significant progress. We have expanded education and employment opportunities, reduced homelessness, improved the processing of claims for disability benefits and given new support for the caregivers of disabled veterans. In the coming year, I look forward to working with veterans all across the country and their representatives here in Washington as we redouble our commitment to the men and women who have given so much for our nation.”