|
| Affiliation | Democratic |
|
| Name | Jon Powers |
| Address |
Buffalo, New York , United States |
| Email | None |
| Website | [Link] |
| Born |
July 03, 1978
(45 years)
|
| Contributor | ArmyDem |
| Last Modifed | Ashley
Apr 25, 2008 10:10pm |
| Tags |
Caucasian - Army -
|
| Info | Jonathan Powers - Army Captain and decorated Iraq War veteran, schoolteacher and nonprofit leader - will take to Washington an exceptional standard for “leadership by example.”
As an artillery platoon leader in the Army’s 1st Armored Division, and later as the Battalion Commander’s Adjutant in Baghdad and Najaf - Captain Powers was hailed by his commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel William Rabena, as “one of the most talented officers I have known in twenty-two years of service in the Army.” Rabena lauded his “extraordinary management skills, leadership, and unmatched talent to accomplish the most difficult tasks with minimal guidance,” calling Capt. Powers “the type of officer a commander only dreams of having in his unit.”
While leading his soldiers through one of Baghdad’s most volatile sectors, Capt. Powers witnessed firsthand the devastation and lost opportunities that resulted from the Bush Administration’s mismanagement and lack of planning for post-invasion Iraq. He saw how his and his fellow soldiers’ idealism, dedication and patriotism were dishonored by a government that sent them to war without proper equipment, training or forethought.
The war was far from over when Powers returned home to Western New York, intending to become a full-time social studies teacher in the Clarence public schools. But, moved by his experience at war and driven to action, Powers sought to help those in Iraq whose voices are least heard - Iraqi children, many of whom have known only war their entire young lives. He returned to Baghdad and founded War Kids Relief, a nonprofit organization aimed at assisting the youth of Iraq, providing them the resources and education needed to avoid recruitment by radical and terrorist organizations. War Kids Relief was quickly recognized for its pathbreaking work and was featured on the NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams “Making a Difference” series and in a Newsweek cover story.
Jon Powers was born and raised in the Buffalo suburb of Clarence, NY. His parents served in leadership positions with the Lions Club and led volunteer efforts through their church throughout his childhood, fostering in him a strong commitment to civic engagement. Powers has deep roots in the Western New York community. He attended public schools, was an Eagle Scout, and joined the Army ROTC in pursuit of his education degree.
Whether directing men and women in combat or shaping young minds, Powers continues to be a leader who puts competence and problem-solving above anything else. Unfortunately, Powers’ opponent, Congressman Tom Reynolds, too often places loyalty - to his political party and the preservation of his own career - ahead of competence and accountability.
Reynolds’ approach is guiding America down the wrong path, and Western New Yorkers demand and deserve more from their elected officials. In 2006, in a historically Republican district, Reynolds won by fewer than 9,000 votes. Still, he returned to Washington with the same tired agenda, and continues to support the Administration and its failed policies.
A country at war, a district losing jobs, and a people who increasingly recognize they deserve better are ripe for a new positive brand of leadership. Powers’ campaign of “leadership by example” is about listening to everyday Western New Yorkers, meeting our challenges, and providing reasonable, cost-effective solutions to the problems that impact real people in their daily lives.
|
 | BOOKS |
 |
|
| Title |
Purchase |
Contributor |
|
| Start Date |
End Date |
Type |
Title |
Contributor |
|
| Date |
Category |
Headline |
Article |
Contributor |
|
| INFORMATION LINKS |
|
|
|
