Obama supporters rally

NORTH STAFFORD — Two retired military leaders made several stops throughout Virginia on Monday, and spoke to the state’s veterans about the challenges they face.

Rear Adm. Jamie Barnett and Command Sgt. Maj. Michele Jones made four stops, beginning in Newport News, hitting Richmond and Stafford and ending in Arlington.

While in Stafford, they visited the John M. Porter Branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, meeting with local veterans and military families — those who support Presidential Candidate Barack Obama.

The rally lasted from 3 p.m. until about 4 p.m.

Barnett and Jones discussed Obama’s plans for medical care for men and women serving in the military, when they return home from service, as well as reasons why they believe Obama is the best man for the job.

Barnett served in the Military Sealift Command Office during Operation Desert Storm and most recently served as deputy commander of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.

Jones was the first woman to serve as the Command Sergeant Major of the Army Reserve.

“I believe in Obama,” said Jones, “and I wouldn’t be standing here if I didn’t.”

People working in local campaign offices for Obama-Biden all had similar stories of putting faith in Obama-Biden. They each had a reason for their support.

One audience member, concerned for her nephew, said she just wants troops to come home.

Barnett, who said he trusts Obama’s judgment, told her: “Barack Obama will end the war.”

“I just don’t want our soldiers dying anymore,” she said. “I’m tired of it.”

Stafford County Supervisor Bob Woodson, D-Griffis-Widewater, attended the event.

“…We need change,” said Woodson. “Barack can do it.”

Two supporters, Lydia Graves and Martin Parlett came all the way from England to support the campaign. The two are students at Oxford University.

Other guests at the meeting included former Marine Sgt. Nick Baucom, who has served in Iraq, and U.S. Army veteran, former Capt. Terron Sims, who grew up in Woodbridge and lives in Arlington.

Sims said our service members are surviving injuries they wouldn’t have survived years ago. Technology has advanced. Things need to be done to help amputees and those who want to retain military careers.

“We all want a commander in chief who can put soldiers first, not just those serving in combat — during a time of war but also during a time of peace,” said Sims. “Sen. Obama is the only candidate not just throwing out words.”