Statement by Congressional Candidate Lee Zeldin

PATCHOGUE, NY (08/19/2008)(readMedia)-- Over the last two weeks, we all have heard about Russia's surprise attack on Georgia and its citizens who find themselves living in a war zone. The U.S. State Department has reacted to this conflict with strength and compassion and it is imperative that the Russian government answer international calls to pull out of Georgia immediately.

Nothing hit closer to home than reading about Mrs. Marina Tsartsidze of Middle Island and her son Nicholas who is trapped in Georgia. As a veteran and father of two, I can only imagine the anguish she must be feeling for her son Nicholas' safety. My heart goes out to Mrs. Tsartsidze and I wish her son a speedy and safe return home. Our nation must do everything in our power to protect such a brave young man abroad.

One of my campaign volunteers suggested that I should try to obtain a picture with Mrs. Tsartsidze in order to benefit my candidacy. However, I, like other military veterans, have experienced the despicable offense of politicians trying to exploit families for the publicity. Without any reciprocation I would welcome Mrs. Tsartsize and her family to privately contact my office so that I can help in whatever way I can.

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Zeldin served as an aide to State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle. The Shirley resident studied at the University at Albany, graduated from Albany Law School, and earned his commission through Army ROTC. He was a paratrooper, prosecutor and magistrate with the 82nd Airborne Division and XVIII Airborne Corps. In the summer of 2006, he was a JAG attorney deployed to Iraq. He is currently an attorney at Raiser & Kenniff on Long Island.

Paid for by Lee Zeldin for Congress