Former Republican presidential nominee Bob Dole, a World War II veteran, is endorsing Jeb Bush for president and will serve as the 2016 GOP candidate’s chairman for veteran outreach.

“I consider nearly all the Republican candidates to be my friends, but I have determined that Jeb Bush is the most qualified,” Dole said in a statement rolled out by the Bush campaign on Veterans Day.

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“Jeb has the proven leadership skills and executive experience needed to fix the problems facing our country — from the anemic economy to America's weakened standing among world leaders. Jeb's conservative reform agenda and forward looking vision on issues including 4 percent economic growth, defeating [the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria] and taking care of our veterans are in stark contrast to’s strategy to continue the failed policies of the present Administration,” Dole said. "I will do all I can to be helpful to Jeb’s campaign.”

Dole served in the House in the 1960s, then was elected to the upper chamber, eventually rising to Senate majority leader.

He has also served as chairman of the Republican National Committee and was former President Gerald Ford’s pick for vice president during Ford’s unsuccessful reelection bid in 1976. His GOP presidential bid fell short to former President Bill Clinton William (Bill) Jefferson ClintonChelsea Clinton: Trump isn't building public confidence in a vaccine Hillary Clinton launching podcast this month GOP brushes back charges of hypocrisy in Supreme Court fight MORE in 1996.

Dole, who was badly wounded in World War II, has received numerous medals and honors for his service.