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Allen Weh meets with Albuquerque veterans; addresses jobs, economy

2/1/2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                     CONTACT: CHRISTOPHER SANCHEZ

Jan. 30, 2010                                                                    (505) 344-9220 OR (505) 504-8881

Allen Weh meets with Albuquerque veterans; addresses jobs, economy

ALBUQUERQUE — Businessman and gubernatorial candidate Allen Weh met with about 40 veterans and their family members today at his campaign headquarters where he vowed to create jobs and get New Mexico’s economy moving again.

“We need to welcome industry and private-sector growth – not discourage or hamper it as the Richardson-Denish administration has done for the last seven years,” Weh told the group. “When I’m governor, New Mexico will be open for business again.”

Many veterans in the group said they like Weh’s no-nonsense style. One commented, “A lot of people say you’re not a politician. In a time like this, I say that’s a good thing.”

Weh said his 38 years in the Marine Corps taught him self-discipline, leadership, and true commitment, all attributes he says the next Governor will need in balancing the budget and moving the state out of recession.   

“If this campaign were a congeniality contest, I know I wouldn’t win,” Weh said. “But New Mexicans aren’t looking for a typical politician right now. They are looking for someone who has the leadership experience to create jobs and get our state out of this mess.”

Weh also told the group that he will be an outspoken advocate for a better quality of life for New Mexico’s veterans. As Governor, Weh said he will do everything in his power from the state level to improve accessibility and quality of health care, provide better job opportunities especially for young service men and women returning from overseas, and support for military families who sacrifice so much for the security of the country.

Weh is a Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve (Ret), who began his service as an enlisted Marine before being selected for Officer Candidate School. He served two tours in Vietnam and with the British Royal Marines in Malaysia.

Weh was recalled to active duty during the Persian Gulf War, for the U.S. expedition into Somalia, and to serve as Chief of Staff of Marine Forces Pacific prior to retiring in 1997. In 2003-04, he was recalled from the Retired List to serve in Iraq and given a key leadership role with the creation and organization of the new Iraqi Army.

Weh is the recipient of the Silver Star, the Bronze Star with “V,” three Purple Hearts and five Air Medals. In addition to these combat awards, he also received the Legion of Merit and two Meritorious Service Medals.

“New Mexico’s veterans are certainly concerned about their issues, but I also heard today that they want to see our budget balanced without raising taxes and want to elect a governor who will actually support private industry and create jobs.  I told them I was their guy,” Weh said.  “I also told them I had time for one more tour of duty.”

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