A long line of 2,600 people wrapped around the Entertainment Pavilion at the World Ag Expo, in Tulare. All were excited to hear from former President George W. Bush. He was the keynote speaker at the kickoff and fundraising event for a new program called, Ag Warriors. The program helps train and prepare veterans for a career in agriculture. It was a big night for hundreds of veterans and their families.
“I think it's a very important cause. We've got so many troops coming home to massive unemployment and this is an awesome program,” said Sandra Hornor with the Central Valley Blue Star Moms. U.S. Army Soldier Derek Webb said, “It's touching. I'm glad that we have it so I'm glad to be part of it. Glad to experience it.”
Once guests got inside, they were greeting by live music. The program also honored one of it's over achieving “Ag Warriors.” And then, George W. Bush took center stage. No cameras were allowed inside during his speech. He started by talking about his life after presidency. He joked around a bit, saying one of the things he misses about being president was "being pampered." Joking aside, he said he really misses being Commander in Chief. The former president spoke for about a half hour and answered questions afterward.
The last time the former president was in the Central Valley was back in 2003. That's when he visited a food plant, in Dinuba.
TXT 24
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