Lance drove the Ford F150 camouflage pickup that seemed as if it had just driven straight back from the smoke-filled Vietnamese battlefield. A few dozen meters from the WLRN-TV Station, he slowed down and pulled over, which was entirely different from how other candidates arrived. Typically, the other candidates drove right up to the station's front doors, stepped out of various models of business cars, waved to thank supporters at the scene, and then, prompted by assistants, quickly disappeared inside the television station to prepare for the primary debate.
But Jeff, Jessica, Gina, and the kids had gotten out of the car early and walked towards the old soldiers who had come early to cheer for Jeff. Without waving, Jeff faced each of the disheveled-looking veterans, giving them a firm hug and a crisp response:
"Old soldier, I will win tonight's battle! I'll come to see you with victory in hand!"
"Sir, save me a drink to celebrate victory when I come out!"