Streamlining and Transition Assistance Attracts Key Support
With less than 80 days to go until election day, San Diego Mayoral candidate Carl DeMaio picked up more support from key military veterans today. “With a narrowed field, I am pleased to announce that as the general election approaches, veterans of all branches and walks of life are rallying around Carl DeMaio,” stated retired U.S. Army Major General Dennis Kenneally, the volunteer coordinator of the Veterans for DeMaio Coalition. Kenneally was joined by several key veterans at a news conference today in front of the Veterans Memorial and Center at Balboa Park.
“Carl DeMaio is much attuned to the veteran community,” stated former Marine Corp Captain Sandy Purdon, a Vietnam War veteran. “Last year, Carl supported the change to the San Diego City Charter which increased employment opportunities for veterans. Previously only drafted members of the military had preferential treatment, now it includes all members of the military. I’m pleased to back his campaign for mayor.”
Another new supporter Retired U.S. Navy Commander Alan Lerchbacker, who led the search and recovery of the Challenger Space Shuttle, declared, “I endorse Carl DeMaio for Mayor and encourage all veterans to support his campaign. Carl has placed top priority on the Transition Assistance Programs to ensure returning veterans have ample opportunity to receive further education and employment. I applaud and support his efforts.”
Craig Candelore, retired United States Army Colonel and Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, noted, “Carl intends to streamline the licensing and certification processes so that skills acquired by the veteran during their time in the military translate with greater ease into certifications in similar fields in the civilian world. Carl’s goal is to eliminate unnecessary red tape and allow businesses to grow in San Diego thereby growing the job opportunities and lowering the unemployment rate among all groups including veterans.”
Surrounded by the veteran leaders, Carl DeMaio, thanked them for their support. “I am honored to receive the endorsements from America’s heroes—our veterans. I will continue to strive to offer more opportunities of our returning military men and women. When I am elected Mayor, I will create a Military and Veterans Advisory Board for the City of San Diego to advise the Mayor on issues important to the military community at large. ”
Darryl Thibault a United States Army 101st Airborne veteran and former Station Chief of the CIA in San Diego, added, “Carl led the fight for pension reform and lower taxes. He will fight on behalf of veterans and serve as a watchdog looking after the interest of our fellow servicemen and women.”