Washington, D.C. -  “Today, I visited buildings 11, 14, 18 and the Malogne House of Walter Reed Army Medical Center. These buildings are used to house outpatients and their families while service members continue to receive care at the Army's primary medical facility.

In more than one building, we found mold, peeling paint and non-functional or old ventilation, heating and air conditioning systems. The problems are not unique to Building 18, the building that was the focal point of the Washington Post stories. It is crystal clear that extensive renovations are needed.

During my visit, I also had the opportunity to meet with Indiana service members recovering at Walter Reed. We can be incredibly proud of our servicemen and women who are receiving treatment there. 

I also ran into General Schoomaker, the new commander of Walter Reed. I hope that under his leadership, our servicemen and women will be able to recover in facilities whose conditions are equal to the contributions they have made to their country.  I will continue to monitor this situation to see that adequate progress is being made.

      ###