The special election for the 10th Congressional seat on September 1, caused by the recent appointment of Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher (D-Pleasanton) had generated a wave of potential Congressmen and Congresswomen. So many that it brings back memories of the 2003 Gubernatorial recall that had over 60 potential replacements to Gray Davis. While there are not that many running for the 10th there are more than enough to keep you well confused.
However, there is one candidate that, as far as veteran’s issues are concerned, stands clearly out in the field. That is Anthony Woods.
A US Army veteran, Mr. Woods earned a Bronze Star and an Army Commendation medal in Iraq where he served two tours of duty. Woods was born on Travis Air Force base in Fairfield, California, and raised by a single mother who worked long hours as a housekeeper. Overcoming numerous obstacles, such as a lack of health insurance for most of his life, Woods fought to realize his dream of a quality education and the chance to serve his country by earning a Congressional Appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he served on the Honor Committee, Commanded summer training for the yearling class, and eventually graduated on the Dean’s List.
Upon his return from Iraq, Woods continued his education at Harvard University, where he was awarded a Master’s Degree from the Kennedy School of Government, and was selected to give the 2008 Graduate Commencement address. He was a co-recipient of the Robert F. Kennedy Public Service Award for his work his work mentoring low-income minorities applying to college and numerous other community leadership activities---including co-founding the first student chapter of the Fuller Center for Housing, and making three trips to New Orleans to assist families struggling to rebuild following Hurricane Katrina.
Unfortunately as older veterans in Congress retire we are seeing that there unique experience and commitment to this nations veterans is going away with them. This has seen a steady decline in the focus of Congress in ensuring that our service men and women have the benefits and services they deserve and have, literally, fought to protect. We need more veterans in Congress standing up for our rights. Anthony Woods represents the next generation in veteran’s representation in Congress. He is young, energetic, and committed to protecting veterans.
That is why the Veterans Press urges all voters, but especially veterans in the 10th Congressional District to cast their vote for Anthony Woods.