Has anyone ever testified before a Congressional Sub-Committee? I need some coaching/info on their protocols.

2014-05-12T09:14:07-04:00

Topic of Discussion:
The plight of OIF/OEF Veterans and their families regarding the lack of access to proper mental health treatment and therapies.

Response by MAJ Steve Sheridan made May 12 at 2014 9:19 AM

2014-05-12T09:19:11-04:00

No, but good luck. Sounds like a great opportunity to help our Mlitary and family members.

Your topic interests me, as my wife works in that area.

Would love to hear how it went, please message me afterwards.

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made May 12 at 2014 9:39 AM

2014-05-12T09:39:43-04:00

Understand Roberts Rules of Order.

Do not be intimidated into answers that you cannot fully and confidently answer. Respectfully decline to answer or provide one later.

Some members of Congress relish their power a bit too much and are oppressive. Don't cave.

Response by CPT Richard Riley made May 12 at 2014 3:33 PM

2014-05-12T15:33:21-04:00

As SSG Spencer said, they follow Robert's Rules of Order - it's a business way of conducting a meeting. You can look up on-line & get the basics down in short time. It can be really confusing but hopefully you'll have at least someone there to help and guide you through those basics. Be honest, answer only what your asked, be specific with your answer. This takes me way back to late 1980. I am forever grateful to Sen. John Glenn for his support. Make sure you take all your notes with you, they come in handy when you get brain freeze and your ready to freak out.
Will you be nervous - YES. I hope your time spent in front of the committee is factual and short. As SSG Spencer said the elected officials tend to think more of themselves than they deserve.
Take a few deep breaths, realize this is just one thing that you'll do in life and go from there.

Response by SGT Hutch Dubosque made May 13 at 2014 1:05 PM

2014-05-13T13:05:11-04:00

Thank you all for responses. I did go to c-span.com and watched a few opening statements. I have edited my speech down to about ten minutes, which may be too long, and I got rid of all the angry language. I also am offering supporting documents for the record. I will definitely check out Robert's Rules of Order. I don't intimidate easily, so I should be okay in a Q&A situation. My subject matter is reasonably narrow and I have lots of notes, facts, and figures to refer to. I will let you all know how it went, as I am a novice at this. Again, Thanks for your input; very helpful and reassuring.