Congress returns from its Independence Day break with a pair of high-profile military hearings before the Senate Armed Services Committee this week.

On Thursday, the committee meets again for the confirmation hearing of Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey's successor, Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford.

Dunford has earned high marks from several members of the Senate already, but will face indirect anger from committee members on President Obama's foreign policy moves.

Behind the scenes, members of the Senate panel are working with the House Armed Services Committee to agree on details of the annual authorization bill, in hopes of bringing the measure to a final congressional vote by the end of the month. But the legislation still faces a presidential veto threat, a point that Republicans will repeatedly criticize in the weeks to come.

Tuesday

Senate Armed Services — 9:30 a.m. — Dirksen G50

ISIL strategy

Defense Secretary Ash Carter and Joint Chiefs Chairman Army Gen. Martin Dempsey brief members of the committee on ongoing U.S. efforts in the Middle east and the strategy to fight Islamic State militants.

Wednesday

House Veterans' Affairs — 2 p.m. — Cannon 334

Veterans employment

The subcommittee on economic opportunity will review the VA's vocational rehabilitation program and efforts to find post-military employment for veterans.

Thursday

Senate Armed Services — 9:30 a.m. — Dirksen G50

Confirmation hearing

The committee will consider the nomination of Marine Corps Gen. Joseph Dunford Jr. to become the next chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

House Veterans' Affairs — 2 p.m. — Cannon 334

Pending legislation

The subcommittee on disability assistance will review several pieces of legislation under consideration by the committee.

Friday

House Science and Technology — 9 a.m. — Rayburn 2318

Space exploration

The subcommittee on space will look at operational challenges with the International Space Station.

Leo covers Congress, Veterans Affairs and the White House for Military Times. He has covered Washington, D.C. since 2004, focusing on military personnel and veterans policies. His work has earned numerous honors, including a 2009 Polk award, a 2010 National Headliner Award, the IAVA Leadership in Journalism award and the VFW News Media award.

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