Ron Paul 2012: ‘And I Went’ Photo Goes Viral

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January 9, 2012 11:03 AM EST

Ron Paul's 2012 campaign got a boost when he uttered his famous "And I Went" line during Saturday's New Hampshire debate in a heated exchange with Republican rival Newt Gingrich.

Paul was criticizing so-called "chickenhawks," or politicians who are hawkish about going to war but personally shirked the opportunity to serve in the U.S. military.
"I think people who don't serve when they could and they get three or four or even five deferments have no right to send our kids off to war," said Paul in a clear reference to Gingrich.
Gingrich responded: "I was married with a child."
To which Paul famously shot back: "When I was drafted, I was married and had two kids, and I went."
Paul finished his sentence with pursed lips and a steely gaze. The crowd was silent for a moment. Then, it broke out in applause.



After the debate, clips of Paul's "And I Went" response were widely circulated.

On Sunday, Paul's daughter Joy Paul LeBlanc posted an old family photo on her Facebook page of Paul in his military uniform holding his son Rand in the 1960s (seen above).

"This is my dad Ron Paul with my brother Rand when Dad was in San Antonio in the Air Force," wrote Paul LeBlanc.

The photo was quickly circulated on the Internet and dubbed the "I Went" or "And I Went" photo.

Paul supporters claim the photo not only highlights his willingness to serve in the U.S. military but also his image as a family man. Other simply thought it was a "cute" and "adorable."

“I'm speechless. (in a good way),” wrote Clint Greenlee on the Ron Paul Polls Facebook page.

“Hopefully two future Presidents!” wrote Jack Betlach. (Rand Paul is currently a U.S. Senator).

Ron Paul has enjoyed wide support from the U.S. military in his 2012 presidential bid.

Individuals associated with the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy are his top campaign donors, according to OpenSecrets.org.

Many members of the military, like Corporal Jesse Thorsen, also actively campaign for him.

“If there is any man out there that has a vision for this country, it’s definitely [Ron Paul]. His foreign policy is by far, hands down better than any candidates out there,” said Thorsen at a Paul rally.