Prepared statement of Mr. Patrick W. Dunne
Nominee for Assistant Secretary (Policy and Planning)
Department of Veterans' Affairs
July 27, 2006
Mr. Chairman, Senator Akaka, and members of the Committee, good morning. Thank you for the opportunity to testify today. I am honored and humbled to be nominated by President Bush to serve as Assistant Secretary for Policy and Planning at the Department of Veterans Affairs. I am also most grateful to Secretary Jim Nicholson for his confidence in me.
For the past 33 years it was my privilege to serve in the United States Navy. During my many tours at sea on submarines and ashore in many different homeports, I developed a deep respect and appreciation for the personnel who serve in our Armed Forces -- and their families. Time and again they displayed the Honor, Courage and Commitment that makes our Armed Forces the greatest in the world. As time marches on, they too will become Veterans.
So I am inspired by them to tackle the challenges of the mission of the Department of Veterans' Affairs ? ?To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and orphan.? If confirmed, I look forward to joining the team of professionals at the Department of Veterans Affairs to accomplish that mission. I am confident my experience in the Navy has given me the skills to lead and contribute effectively.
I realize I will have much to learn about the Department of Veterans' Affairs and all the issues that are of concern to our Veterans. The Assistant Secretary for Policy and Planning is responsible to provide advice and counsel to the Secretary and other senior leaders on corporate policy and strategic planning. If confirmed, I will become thoroughly familiar with the issues facing the Department and give my very best effort to work diligently, and faithfully advise the Secretary and Deputy Secretary.
With me today are my wife, Diane, my daughter, Erin and son, Patrick and his wife, Amy; my mother, Catherine, and my wife's parents, Donald and Eileen Ramroth. I am very grateful for their constant love and support.
Thank you again, Mr. Chairman and members of the committee, for your consideration of my nomination. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
