The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee gathered to listen to experts testify on the long-term costs of caring for wounded and injured troops from Iraq and Afghanistan. But the hearing was dominated by the determined wife of a quadruple amputee, who said the system needs much more than money to be responsive.

Politicians from both sides of the aisle have floated plans for major cuts in defense spending in various proposed deals to cut the deficit while raising the debt ceiling. The nominee to head the Joint Chiefs of Staff says that’s the wrong way to go.

The Treasury Department normally sends out 80 million checks monthly. How many of those checks go out next week if the nation goes into default in the debt limit standoff was an open question. Angry vets groups went to the White House today looking for assurances that veterans benefits and paychecks for active duty troops would not fall victim to the political jockeying.

Two twins. Two deployments. Two promotions.

In a display of candor rarely seen in Washington, Army Sgt 1st Class Leroy Petry took to a podium at the Pentagon and spoke about the tributes and the trials that come with wearing the Medal of Honor.

“You don’t have to live here. For you, this place is like a movie, you can come in, watch, and then leave when you’ve had enough.” Journalist John Cantlie reflects on his trip to Afghanistan.

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After many delays, the VA sent out the first batch of monthly paychecks to home caregivers of wounded veterans. The program provides a stipend to family members who stay home to care for their wounded veteran.

The War Report brings you a weekly roundup of stories, from us and other news outlets, that you may have missed or just didn’t have time to read or watch. Check back here every Friday for a helpful and insightful list of some of the best stories about Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, the Pentagon and more, including a photo of the week.

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta says he doesn’t believe in “the false choice between fiscal discipline and a strong national defense. We will all work together to achieve both.”