Dear Editor,

As everyone in Richmond County knows, this family is Republican. However, at last we have an individual whom I feel will support the veterans from Scotland, Richmond, Stanley and Anson counties if he is elected. Gene McLaurin has always supported the veterans. He is one of the few mayors who held a 9-11 Parade and Ceremony to honor not only the veterans who were wounded or killed in the 9-11 attack on the twin towers and the Pentagon but also the individuals who had nothing to do with the aggression on the US but lost their lives.

As a military retired Command Sergeant Major, I am asking all veterans in these counties to come out and vote for Mayor McLaurin. As most veterans know, we have a lot of concerns in reference to the veteran activities. I have been the Commander of VFW Post 4203 and the State Commander of AMVETS Dept. of NC. We need an individual like Gene McLaurin in the NC Senate. He has the most zealous attitude to be a great senator.

My 21 years in the military, 5 ½ years of combat time, I know the meaning of leadership. Gene McLaurin portrays leadership at its utmost. I voted for John F. Kennedy for President because he said there would be no communist forces in the Western Hemisphere. Likewise I believe Gene McLaurin will support the veterans with our numerous problems we have encountered over the years.

Veterans, if you elect Gene McLaurin State Senator, it will be a tremendous help to all veterans.

Edward J. O’Neal, Ret. CSM, USA

Past State Commander, AMVETS Dept of NC

Rockingham, N.C.