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"Now on a few occasions I have misspoken about my service, and I regret that and I take full responsibility," Blumenthal said "but I will not allow anyone to take a few misplaced words and impugn my record of service to our country."
The issue exploded on Monday night when The New York Times reported on its website comments Blumenthal made at a 2008 appearance in Norwalk.
Blumenthal received deferments allowing to complete his college education rather than serve in the military. In 1970, The Times reported, he landed a spot in the Marine Corps Reserves.
In the Norwalk statements, The Times reported, Blumenthal said, "We have learned something important since the days that I served in Vietnam," Blumenthal said to the group gathered in Norwalk in March 2008. "And you exemplify it. Whatever we think about the war, whatever we call it Afghanistan or Iraq we owe our military men and women unconditional support."
Rob Simmons, who is seeking the Republican nomination for the seat, released a statement on Monday evening. "As someone who served, I respect Richard Blumenthal for wearing the uniform, but I am deeply troubled by allegations that he has misrepresented his service, Simmons, former U.S. congressman from Stonington, said. "Too many have sacrificed too much to have their valor stolen in this way. I hope Mr. Blumenthal steps forward and forthrightly addresses the questions that have arisen about this matter."
Linda McMahon, who many consider most likely to face Blumenthal in the general election in November, issued no statement but posted the Times' article on her website.
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