Little Rock - Today, Wes Clark was thrilled to receive the backing of former New York City Mayor David Dinkins.

"David Dinkins is an honorable man - and I am honored to have his endorsement," Wes Clark said. "As Mayor of New York City, David Dinkins stood up for children, education, civil liberties, and the underprivileged. And he didn't back down. During the toughest of times, he provided courageous leadership. I am proud that he is supporting my campaign."

The former mayor said of Clark that he "has values that are consistent and congruent with things that I deem to be important. It's also important to win, and he can win," Dinkins added, speaking to reporters on a conference call where he announced his endorsement.

In 1989, the people of New York City elected David Dinkins mayor. He was the first African American to hold that office. During World War II, Dinkins served in the United States Marine Corps. In 1965, he was elected to the State Assembly. In 1975, he was appointed as New York City Clerk. From 1986 until 1989, he served as the Borough President of Manhattan.

As a professor of public affairs at Columbia University, Mayor Dinkins is currently guiding the leaders of tomorrow.

Mayor Dinkins joins a distinguished team of New York leaders who are supporting Wes Clark, including: Congressman Charles Rangel, Congressman Steve Israel, Congressman Anthony Weiner, and State Senate Minority Leader David Paterson.