Obama Visits With Veterans In Las Cruces

The campaign trail led presidential hopeful Senator Barack Obama to Las Cruces for part of Memorial Day.

Obama spoke at an invitation-only event exclusively for veterans at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum.

Obama arrived about 45 minutes late, but that did not quell the enthusiasm of the couple of hundred peoplewho showed up to the event.

Attendees included state and local veterans’ officials, Las Cruces mayor Ken Miyagishima and New Mexico governor Bill Richardson, who introduced the candidate.

Obama talked about the importance of Memorial Day, saying, “One of the best ways to honor our fallen soldiers is to honor those who came back, who survived. To all veterans who are here, thank you. I will not let you down.”

After his speech, Obama had a town-hall style question and answer session with his audience, in which headdressed many issues, including the health care crisis, energy initiatives, cutting taxes, and improving education.