Wilkie was a witness this morning for joining us and since this is her first touring with some members to spain remotely id like to begin by offering a brief explanation of how it will work in order to benefit both members and the public. First, this searing room has been configured to maintain the recommended sixfoot social distancing between members, witnesses and other individuals in the room necessary to operate the hearing. As i mentioned some members have opted to use secure video teleconferencing which allows them to participate remotely. For those on the Video Conference once you start speaking there would be a slight delay before you are displayed on the main screen as i am now. To minimize background was to ask members are participating virtually remain on mute until it is your turn to ask questions. Please remember to mute yourself at the conclusion of your questions. Should you seek additional time please unmute yourself so i will recognize you. Just like if you were in the
Members would like to submit materials, please send them to the email address that has previously been distributed to your offices. We will circulate the materials to members and staff as quickly as we possibly can. Also ask all members to please mute your microphones when youre not speaking, to help prevent feedback and other technical issues and of course, unmute yourselves anytime you seek recognition. I know will recognize myself for an Opening Statement. Id like to welcome our witnesses and the members of the immigration citizenship subcommittee for todays hearing, which will explore the initiatives by the Current Administration to support noncitizen Service Members, veterans and their family members. Immigrants are important to our society and provide key support to our u. S. Military. Currently, immigrants account for approximately 3 of active duty Service Members. Additionally, 13 of veterans or 3. 4 million people, are of immigrant origin, meaning that either they or their par