House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs Chairman William Timmons (R-S.C.) are continuing their investigation into the prevalence of traumatic brain injuries among current and former naval aviators and flight officers. The lawmakers sent a letter to Secretary of the Navy John Phelan requesting more information and documents about how the U.S. Navy evaluates, tracks, and addresses health risks that could lead to these injuries.
“[Recent] public reporting revealed concerns among current and former naval personnel about the possible prevalence of brain injuries among aviators and flight officers. In light of these concerns and to assist the Committee’s ongoing oversight, we are requesting additional documents and information related to the Navy’s evaluation, tracking, and mitigation of these health risks,” wrote the lawmakers. “The Committee is concerned that the Navy is failing to adequately understand or address the underlying causes of traumatic brain injuries, cognitive dysfunction, and mental health issues affecting aviators and flight officers.”
The committee's investigation focuses on whether naval aviators who suffer head injuries during their service are at increased risk for mental health problems or cognitive impairments that may affect job performance or even lead to suicide. This request follows previous efforts by the committee to obtain information from the Navy regarding its handling of such cases.
“Documents produced by the Navy indicate that the Department has never conducted a comprehensive investigation into the psychological effects of flight operations on these personnel. The lack of information on this issue also raises concerns about the adequacy of the information that is being provided to Congress and decisionmakers regarding the health and welfare of our warfighters. It is critical that the Navy take all necessary steps to identify the potential health risks facing aviators and flight officers,” concluded Comer and Timmons.
James Comer currently serves in Congress representing Kentucky’s 1st district after replacing Ed Whitfield in 2016. Before his time in Congress, he served in the Kentucky House of Representatives from 2001 to 2012. Comer was born in Carthage, Tennessee in 1972, graduated from Western Kentucky University with a BS in 1993, and lives in Tompkinsville.
The full letter sent by Comer and Timmons can be found here.
