June 15, 2006 08:00 AM UTC

Colorado Springs: Home of the Generals

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• by: Colorado Pols

In addition to releasing results of a poll (see below), Republican Lionel Rivera announced new military endorsements today, including the endorsement of a retired Lt. General.

After Jeff Crank’s various military endorsements, we have to wonder: Is there anybody living in El Paso County who isn’t a general?

Anyhoo, click below for the Rivera press release…

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More than 40 veterans from the region have formed Veterans for Rivera to endorse and support Mayor Lionel Rivera?s campaign to become the next congressman in the 5th Congressional District.

?Lionel Rivera has done more to recognize and support veterans and our military community than any other candidate in this race and we believe it is important to take an active role in working for his election to Congress,? said retired US Army Lieutenant General Ed Anderson, chairman of Veterans for Rivera.? ?Since he was first elected to Colorado Springs City Council, Mayor Rivera has listened to our issues and worked hard to support and make things happen for the veterans? and military communities.?

Anderson cited several examples of Rivera?s commitment to veterans including advocating for better TRICARE coverage and a veteran?s cemetery in southern El Paso County.

?Winning the war on terrorism is a priority for this community and country,? said retired US Navy Rear Admiral Ken Carlsen.? ?Having a congressman from this district that has worn our nations? uniform would provide invaluable leadership and insight to the U.S. Congress.?

Rivera himself is a veteran, having served nearly eight years in the Army.? His last base was here at Fort Carson where he was honorably discharged as a Captain in 1987.? Rivera then joined the Army Reserves and was honorably discharged as a Major.

?I am humbled by the support of these distinguished members of our community,? said Rivera.? ?The coalition?s endorsement will play a critical part in carrying my message to veterans across the district.?

Rivera, whose father spent 28 years in the Army, is committed to supporting the district?s military families and providing needed resources to the region?s bases.