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CHARLOTTE, NC--Former Arizona Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords attended the Democartic convention today and delivered the Pledge of Allegiance.
She was accompanied on stage by her close personal friend, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, as the crowd roared, "Gabby! Gabby!" She delivered the pledge with an upbeat tone, using her left hand to help hold up her right hand to her heart. Her appearance brought people in the audience to tears.
A senior Obama campaign official told CBS News that the plan for Giffords to be a part of the convention had been in the works for a long time, noting that she and the president are friends.
"She is a real symbol of grit and determination," said the aide. "There's a symbolism of that for this country. It will be a powerful moment." Rep. Ron Barber, D-Ariz., who now holds Giffords congressional seat, released a statement that said, "All of Southern Arizona and the country is inspired by Gabby and her amazing spirit. We are so happy to have her home in Tucson, and I couldn't be happier that tonight the whole country will see her grace and perseverance."
The appearance marks another page in a series of memorable displays the two have shared in the public eye. In January 2011, five days after an assassination attempt on Giffords in Tucson, Ariz., that left six dead and 14 wounded.
