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 David Bellavia a local Iraq war hero confirmed to News 10NBC that he will run for Congress, which would make for an interesting race against Jon Powers, an Iraq war hero from Erie County. It could be one of the most watched races of the election season.
Staff Sergeant David Bellavia lives in Batavia and is a Republican and Conservative. Captain Powers grew up in Clarence and is a Democrat. Both men want to fill the seat Tom Reynolds is leaving.
Staff Sgt. Bellavia will file the proper paperwork and make the announcement next week. He will also meet with Republican Presidential Candidate John McCain sometime in April.
You may know Bellavia's name. He wrote a book called "House to House - An Epic Memoir of War.” He's 32, lives in Batavia and grew up in the Orleans County town of Waterport. He spent six years in the army, more than of year of that in Iraq, which is chronicled in his book.
Right now Staff Sgt. Bellavia is in Minneapolis, a stop he's made traveling with a group of veterans who are telling their stories.
As for his lack of political experience, it doesn't concern Bellavia. "When you literally realize that your life depends on character and your life depends on consistency and motivating you find out that." says Bellavia "You know what politicians don't often times make the best leaders. Leaders are born, leaders are bred and I was baptized by fire and I think that I'm doing this because I believe I'm being called to serve."
Jack Davis, the man who has run against Tom Reynolds twice before is considering a run again. Retired lawyer Alice Kryzan has already declared she is in the race.
Staff Sgt. Bellavia is being recommended for the Medal of Honor. He's a father of two and the husband of News 10NBC reporter Deanna King.
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