Himes to air first campaign ad

Washington – A decorated veteran who served in the Vietnam War is the subject of the first ad released by the campaign of Rep. Jim Himes, D-4^th District, who has been challenged by Republican Dan Debicella.

The ad, called “Staying” will  begin running on cable stations Tuesday. It  shows retired Army Lt. Col. David Cole of Norwalk and his medals, which include a Purple Heart

“I’ve faced some challenges.” Cole says. “But after suffering a stroke, it was a real challenge to be able to stay in my home.”

Cole says he contacted Himes, who is shown coming up the steps of the vet’s home in slow motion. “He listened and got right to work,” Cole says.

Cole said Himes helped him with a modification of his van to make it wheelchair accessible and helped him obtain a chair lift that allows the Army vet to stay in his home.

Jim Himes doesn’t care if you are a Republican or a Democrat, he just wants to help,” Cole says.

The campaign of fellow Democrat Rep. Elizabeth Esty, D-5^th District, also features a veteran in its first television ad.

Himes’ ad received a prompt appraisal from Sen. Chris Muphy, D-Conn., via Twitter. “You gotta love some slow motion @jahimes. But seriously, great ad,” Murphy tweeted.