Berkley unveils first television ad

Rep. Shelley Berkley today unveiled the first television ad of her campaign for U.S. Senate, a one-minute commercial spotlighting her work for Nevada veterans.

The spot features the father of U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Justin Bailey, who served in Iraq and who died of an overdose at age 27 while giving himself medications for post-traumatic stress under the care of the Veterans Administration.

"My wife and I felt alone in our grief," Tony Bailey says. "Not long after that we were contacted by Shelley Berkley."

Berkley sponsored a bill, later named after Justin Bailey, that requires the VA to provide drug screening, detox programs and substance abuse counseling for returning veterans.

"The Justin Bailey Act is meant to help veterans. To know I can see people that have been helped by my son... I can't imagine being prouder." Tony Bailey says after hesitating with emotion.

The Berkley campaign is spending a reported $45,000 to buy television airtime in the Reno market,  where the Las Vegas Democratic congresswoman is working to become better known.

Berkley is challenging Republican Sen. Dean Heller, who is from Carson City.  He has not yet run any ads.