BY WESLEY P. HESTER

With the help of the man he hopes to succeed, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Timothy M. Kaine today announced “Veterans for Kaine,” a group of more than 100 Virginia veterans and military family members to advocate on his behalf.

Outgoing U.S. Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., a highly decorated Vietnam veteran, is the highest profile member of the group, which includes representatives of all branches of the military.

Kaine has pledged to carry on the legacy of Webb, who has worked throughout his term for military families and was the architect and sponsor of the post-9/11 G.I. Bill.

“I promise that my commitment to our veterans and their families will not end once our men and women return home,” Kaine said in a release.

Webb touted Kaine’s championing of the state’s Wounded Warrior Initiative as governor.

“I could not be more proud than to have Tim Kaine succeed me in the Senate and continue the good work that Virginia’s families deserve,” Webb said.

Kaine could face former Gov. George Allen in the general election this year.