The Courier-Tribune
Thursday, June 8, 2006
www.courier-tribune.com

VETPAC endorses Kissell for Congress

BISCOE — Larry Kissell, high School teacher and Democratic candidate for Congress in North Carolina's 8th district, has been endorsed by the Veterans' Alliance for Security and Democracy. The Veterans' Alliance for Security and Democracy ("VETPAC") is an alliance of veterans and military families seeking to address issues of particular urgency for protecting the security and enhancing the democratic processes of the United States.

"I'm the son of a veteran, so earning this endorsement means the world to me," said Kissell.

The Veterans' Alliance announcement came today on the 62nd anniversary of D-Day , when more than 100,000 Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy in northern France and turned the tide of World War II.

"I am so honored to be endorsed by the veterans of this nation to whom we owe so much, especially on this anniversary of D-Day. We've got to do a better job taking care of our veterans," said Kissell.

World War II veteran and former POW S.L. Parsons from Kissell's home county of Montgomery said he wasn't surprised the veterans picked Kissell.

"Larry's late father was a decorated World War II veteran that saw most of the major European operations following his landing at D-Day plus 3. From the St. Lo Breakout to the Battle of the Bulge to the Bridge at Remagen to serving as our local postmaster on his return home, Richard instilled a sense of duty and sacrifice in the Kissell family that Larry carries with him today and will bring to Congress," said Parsons.

Kissell, a textile manager for 27 years, now teaches history at East Montgomery High School in Biscoe. He will face the incumbent, Republican Robin Hayes, in the Nov. 7 election.