A group of more than a dozen military veterans endorsed City Councilman Kevin Faulconer on Friday in the race to become San Diego's next mayor.
Faulconer said it was an honor to receive the backing of "so many exceptional leaders and heroes."
He pledged that if elected, he would form a Military Advisory Council that would be tasked with ensuring the city is doing all it can to assist veterans. Faulconer said he would expand opportunities for veterans "so they can stay here and succeed."
"San Diego is a military town. Our returning veterans, their families and the military community at large deserve our utmost attention," Faulconer said. "Having never served, I rely on the knowledge and expertise of military advisers."
Retired Vice Adm. Peter M. Hekman said Faulconer is a consistent, proven leader and a consensus builder. Trust and consistency are especially important at City Hall, as is experience in city government, he said.
"Kevin has put San Diego first for the past seven years as a member of the council and as an active citizen of the community," Hekman said. "He can be trusted to bring the best talent to our city and to ensure our tax dollars are spent on restoring our city's services and infrastructure, while restoring our civic reputation for integrity and good governance."
Retired Marine Brig. Gen. Michael Neil said the other candidates' records of achievements could not compare to Faulconer's, and that he is the "clear choice."
Retired Maj. Gen. Dennis Kenneally, former commanding general of the California Army National Guard, also endorsed Faulconer.
