Giffords courts veterans with general's help

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Tucson) announced the formation of the group Veterans for Giffords Wednesday to bolster her support among that key demographic in the 8th Congressional District. Gen. John A. Wickham (ret.), who served as Army Chief of Staff to Pres. Reagan, will co-chair the organization.

The Giffords campaign estimates that around 90,000 veterans reside in the 8th district, the most of any of Arizona's congressional districts. Veterans' issues have topped the Democratic congressional agenda during this session, and Giffords is trying to capitalize on their successes.

"The reasons for re-electing Giffords... can be found in her solid record of accomplishment," said the release announcing the inception of Veterans for Giffords. It went on to list key bills, including the Wounded Warriors Act and the updated G.I. Bill, introduced by Giffords's fellow Democratic freshman, U.S. Rep. Harry Mitchell (D-Tempe).

""I strongly support Congresswoman Giffords," said Wickham, who had previously joined a conference call with Giffords in April to discuss the Iraq War. "She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the men and women who have served our country and that is why I proudly stand behind her," he concluded.

Bill Valenzuela, a Korean War veteran who will chair the group alongside Wickham, added, "She has been there for us and now we are going to be there for her."

Giffords's Republican challenger, state Sen. Pres. Tim Bee (R-Tucson), has also worked to court veterans. Bee appeared alongside U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) on Tuesday to give his take on veterans' concerns and discuss national security strategy.