DUNMORE -- A former state representative, running to get his seat back, faces questions about his service in the U.S. Marine Corps.
A report in the Times-Tribune newspaper claims Kevin Haggerty of Dunmore went away without leave, or AWOL, twice during his nine months of service.
112th District candidate Kevin Haggerty's campaign flyers show pictures from 19 years ago when he was in the Marines. The questions now being raised: what kind of Marine was he?
The front page of the Times-Tribune reads 'Records Reveal Haggerty AWOL.'
David Ragan served in the Pennsylvania National Guard and is a veteran of the war in Iraq. Ragan says details of Haggerty's service are important because the candidate used his Marine portrait on campaign literature.
"To me, it's very sad," said Ragan. "How could I vote for somebody who isn't held accountable?"
The newspaper story is based on a document of Kevin Haggerty's service record released under the Freedom of Information Act. It appears to show Haggerty went AWOL twice during his eight and a half months serving with the Marines.
One source close to Haggerty questions the authenticity of the document the Times-Tribune story is based. But Kevin Haggerty would not consent to an on-camera interview.
Instead, his campaign sent a news release, "I am proud to have served this country as an honorably discharged United States Marine. That is a title that can never be taken away, even by those desperate enough to use it against me for political gain."
"I know that Mr. Haggerty has done some good for the veterans of our area," said Ragan.
Ragan lives in the 112th District and says Haggerty needs to tell his side of the story.
"To run and put yourself out there as an honored Marine, when you deserted, and you were caught in that area, it's kind of a double-edged sword, and I don't think the full story is being told."
For now, Kevin Haggerty is only talking with his lawyers. Tuesday is Election Day. The 112th district has three times as many registered Democrats as Republicans.
Whether this development has an impact on the race remains to be seen.