The Clinton campaign today announced the launch of Veterans and Military Retirees for Hillary, a national committee. Medal of Honor winner Inouye will lead the panel, which will advise the campaign on policy and outreach to the 25 million American veterans and their families.

"I have had the privilege of working with Hillary Clinton since 1993, and her depth of experience makes her uniquely qualified to be president," Inouye said in a news release. "She has been a tireless advocate for our soldiers and veterans, fighting for life-saving body armor when they deploy, and the healthcare and benefits they deserve when they return home.

He did not refer to former Hawai'i resident, candidate and Sen. Barack Obama directly but said: "My support of Hillary Clinton does not take away from, or speak any less of, the other Democratic presidential candidates. They are all outstanding leaders, and, in fact, some are personal family friends.

"There is an excitement present among Democrats as we look ahead to the presidential campaign, and a retaking of the White House on behalf of working families in 2008. I look forward to a vigorous campaign, and I believe Hillary Clinton is the best prepared to deal with the challenges facing our nation at home and abroad," Inouye said.