Bush Radio Address Calls for Congress to Pass Veterans Affairs Bill

ABC News’ James Berger reports:  On the day before Veterans Day, President Bush used his weekly radio address to discuss veterans’ issues.

Bush talked about his recent nomination of Dr. James Peake to be the new head of the Department of Veterans Affairs.  The post has been open since October 1, when Jim Nicholson resigned.

"Doctor Peake will take on an important task, continuing my Administration’s work to implement the bipartisan Dole-Shalala Commission on Wounded Warriors," Bush said.

Earlier this year, former Sen. Bob Dole, R-Kan., and former Heath and Human Services Sec. Donna Shalala led a commission that investigated the care of wounded veterans at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Bush also spoke about the administration’s work on behalf of veterans. 

"Under my Administration, Federal spending for our veterans has increased by more than two-thirds…And we have expanded grants to help homeless veterans across the country," he said.

The president appealed to Congress to pass the Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill before Friday, when Congress leaves for a Thanksgiving break. 

"Some of the Commission’s recommendations require legislative action," Bush said. "This is a good bill, our wounded warriors and their families are counting on it, and I urge Democrats and Republicans to come together to pass it as quickly as possible."