THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, September 1, 1996 TAG: 9608300691
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J6 EDITION: FINAL
LENGTH: 59 lines
Dear Citizens of Virginia:
No other living Virginian possesses the integrity, experience and credibility required of the U.S. Senate position. Were we to propose George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, George Marshall or Harry Byrd, Jr. as prospective senatorial candidates today, we would no more need an endorsement for them than we do John Warner. For John Warner is included in this series of great Virginians whose contributions and dedication to our state and country have reached historical status.
Perhaps I should describe what I value in John Warner. I value his integrity. I value his experience. I value his commitment to a strong national defense. His significant ability in these three arenas is crucial to the future of Virginia and the county. Otherwise, we have much to lose - too much.
I value his integrity. He is regarded as one of the most ethical and moral leaders in the Senate today. Principle and conviction have been the foundation of John Warner's many years of public service. His vision has its basis in courage, commitment and conservative values. Logically, he is the only Virginian who can lead our state into the second millennium.
I value his experience. His extraordinary experience has sown the seeds producing the harvest of Virginia's economic and agricultural stability. John Warner has formed a strong team with Gov. George Allen in moving our state forward in advance technologies and industry. John Warner's legacy will continue to provide results and bring to fruition positive changes for the state.
I value his commitment to strong national defense. As a newly commissioned ensign in 1972, I clearly remember my first secretary of the Navy, John Warner. Dynamic and resourceful, he was the most beloved and respected of all selected to that position. Since that time, he has consistently and successfully championed military causes. It is particularly important to note that Virginia has not been economically decimated due the military reduction in forces. Rather, our military base has continued to grow despite the major cutbacks. Would this continue without John Warner in elected office? We have much to lose - too much.
Many Virginians have loved ones serving in our military forces. In the scenario of a possible military conflict, who do you want making decisions about your loved ones? Both my husband and daughter are on active duty in the Navy. I have much to lose - too much. I want John Warner's integrity, experience and military commitment involved in these decisions regarding my family. Fellow Virginians, is there a choice?
I am confident that by the year 2040, history books will continue to reflect the great statesmen of Virginia, names synonymous with ``patriot.'' I am proud that my grandchildren will know that I wholeheartedly supported that patriot from Virginia whose name is on that page in the future - John Warner.
Francie Golden MEMO: Francie Golden is a retired Navy commander who lives in
Virginia Beach. She has known of John Warner since his days as under
secretary of the Navy. Impressed by his achievements over the years, she
is active in the senator's re-election campaign this year. Among her
public policy interests are children, animal rights and the military.
KEYWORDS: U.S. SENATE RACE VIRGINIA CANDIDATES
JOHN W. WARNER PUBLIC JOURNALISM by CNB