Of course I am a veteran. 40% VA service-connected disabled and worked 14 years as a Veterans Rep. at the State workforce center finding jobs for other veterans! See my profile
Is Rep. Duncan Hunter one of the GOP leaders in the House?
Main Entry: back·bench
Pronunciation: -’bench
Function: noun
Usage: often attributive
: a bench in a British legislature (as the House of Commons) occupied by rank-and-file members
http://www.m-w.com/dictionary/backbench
So, you consider the House Armed Services Committee backbench.
Hunter was awarded the Semper Fidelis and Keeper of the Flame for his work with the House Armed Services Committee.