SENATOR COLLINS QUESTIONS TOP DEFENSE OFFICIALS ON TROOP SUPPLY AND TBI CARE

U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today questioned top defense officials on the proper supplying of U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as the post-tour care of Traumatic Brain Injury.

During a hearing on the Department of Defense Fiscal Year 2010 budget request, Senator Collins expressed her concern over recent media reports that some American troops are being rushed to Afghanistan without proper safety equipment. This equipment shortage leaves U.S. troops vulnerable to attacks from enemies.

"What is being done to ensure that our brave men and women in uniform have the equipment and protection they need to accomplish this very dangerous mission?" Senator Collins asked Defense Secretary Robert Gates.

Secretary Gates noted that he has requested an investigation by Commander of U.S. Central Command General David Petraeus into the equipment problems.

Senator Collins also asked Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, if the military was conducting screening of troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan for both Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Senator Collins helped author significant legislation, the Heroes at Home Act, portions of which were signed into law as part of the FY08 National Defense Authorization Act, which improves the detection, assessment, and treatment of TBI among wounded service members and expands support for the victims of TBI and their families.

Admiral Mullen assured Senator Collins that PTSD screening was being conducted within 120 of the troops' return from the field. He also noted that TBI screening was in effect on-the-ground in Iraq and Afghanistan.