Washington, D.C. - Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, today released the following statement in response to the resignation the Department of Veterans Affairs Under Secretary for Health, Dr. Jonathan B. Perlin.

?I have found Dr. Perlin to be a man of great integrity with the welfare of veterans as his number one priority.  Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of traveling throughout Hawaii with Dr. Perlin for four Committee on Veterans' Affairs hearings.  Because of Dr. Perlin's visit to Hawaii, the health care facilities are better, and Hawaii's veterans are better served. VA has certainly lost an important member of its team.  I wish Dr. Perlin much aloha in his post-VA career and thank him for his excellent service.

?I am concerned about the vacuum Dr. Perlin's departure will create at VA and it is my hope that the President will move expeditiously to begin the search for a new Under Secretary for Health.?