Portsmouth Herald
RAN 2/11/96 Pg. B1
By Shirley Jacques 
Herald Staff
   PORTSMOUTH - While their candidate was stumping in Iowa, a dozen local
veterans rallied for Dole yesterday afternoon.
   Veterans from Maine and New Hampshire had various reasons to support a
fellow veteran.
   As they checked in from York, Kittery, North Hampton and Rye, at the
Emerson Hovey VFW Post No. 168, they heard a video, ``Bob Dole - An American
Hero,'' saying he wants to ensure the next century will dawn on a new
beginning of American greatness, prosperity and freedom.''
   Mike from Portsmouth (who requested his last name not be used) said he
agrees with most of Dole's positions. ``I'm not happy at all with the present
administration. It borders on an embarrassment.''
   Gene Ritzo of Rye said he has a number of reasons to support Dole. ``Not
just because he's a veteran. Dole has experience, ability, integrity,
honesty, character. He's logical and credible and wholly for the America
we've known.''
   Dole has the support of Rockingham County Sheriff Wayne Vetter for a
number of reasons in a year when there are a number of issues. ``In my
professional life,'' Vetter said, ``there's the crime bill. Clinton's crime
bill requires matching funds. Dole would give block grants to local
communities to spend as they see fit,'' he said.
   Vetter gave Medicare, Medicaid as a second reason for support. ``I want to
make sure nothing's going to happen to benefits for my father and the
elderly.''
   Peter Simmons, Dole's field representative, found most of the veterans
taking away bumper stickers and signs as they volunteered to man phone banks,
drop literature and drive voters to the polls Feb. 20 and March 5.
   Then they headed for the refreshments prepared by the VFW Auxiliary.