By Brandon Moseley
Alabama Political Reporter
Dr. Chad Mathis’s campaign for Congress got welcome news when retired U.S. Navy Commander Kirk Lippold officially endorsed Dr. Chad Mathis for Congress in Alabama’s Sixth Congressional District.
Commander Lippold was the Commanding Officer of the USS Cole when Al Qaeda, (then led by Osama bin Laden) attacked the Cole on October 12, 2000 in Yemen, 11 months before the devastating September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon.
The suicide attack by terrorists in a small craft loaded with explosives claimed the lives of 17 American sailors. Commander Lippold and his crew worked furiously to save hundreds more lives as well as the ship, which was severely damaged by the blast.
Commander Lippold said, “As the former Commander of the USS Cole, I know about leadership and service before self. Our nation needs strong principled leaders like Dr. Chad Mathis, now more than ever. Dr. Mathis’ understanding of military issues, dedication to our service members and their families, and willingness to put aside his current profession to seek public office is exactly what the 6th district of Alabama needs.” Commander Lippold retired in 2007 after 26 years of service to our country.
Dr. Chad Mathis said, “To say it is an honor to receive the endorsement of Commander Lippold is an understatement. Commander Lippold is an American Hero and I am truly grateful for his support. I have deep respect and admiration for our military men and women and their loved ones who sacrifice along with them. If elected, my support for a strong military will be unwavering,”
Dr. Chad Mathis is a Republican Candidate for Alabama’s 6th Congressional District. Dr. Chad Mathis is an orthopedist from Indian Springs.
Commander Kirk Lippold also was the Executive Officer of USS Shiloh, an Aegis-class guided missile cruiser and has won numerous personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (three awards), Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Commendation Medal (two awards), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (two awards), in addition to various campaign and service ribbons
Mathis is running in a crowded Republican field that includes: the co-founder and long time CEO of the Birmingham based Alabama Policy Institute (API), Gary Palmer; longtime Harbert executive, Will Brooke; and State Representative Paul DeMarco (R) from Homewood. It is still possible that other candidates could declare for the rare open Congressional seat in one of the most conservative districts in the entire country.
The Sixth District Congressional District seat is currently held by Rep. Spencer Bachus (R) from Vestavia. After serving in the seat for 21 years, Rep. Bachus announced that he would not seek re-election when his current term expires.
The Republican Primary will be on June 3, 2014.
