LAS VEGAS -- A proud Valley mother and her son became big winners at Thursday night's Democratic presidential debate.

Catherine Jackson and her son, Marine Christopher Gallagher -- who did three tours in Iraq -- attended the debate seeking answers. While asking a question at Thursday night's debate, Jackson talked about her son's military service. The audience then gave Gallagher a standing ovation.

"I felt like I was making a difference," Gallagher said. "The standing ovation was just amazing. I was in awe of everybody, including the presidential candidates, standing up and showing appreciation for my service."

After the ovation finished, Jackson questioned the candidates -- she wanted to know which candidate would keep her son from a fourth tour of duty.

"Please tell me how you are going to show us your leadership on this issue now so I can decide who will the best leader for tomorrow," Jackson asked during the debate.

Jackson said she still has a lot of fears about the possibilities with a war in Iran, and after hearing the responses of the candidates, she is still an undecided voter.

As for the current war, Gallagher said as far as he's concerned, the U.S. has accomplished its mission in Iraq.

"I was over there for the invasion was in Baghdad when the statue was taken down," he said. "We got Saddam -- we held free elections. There is no reason for us to be over there other than oil."

After watching the full debate unfold, both mother and son agree that former Sen. John Edwards did well.

"I like Joe Biden's response," Gallgher said. "His was clear and concise -- fanning the winds of war is not what we should be doing."

As far as Sen. Hillary Clinton, Gallagher said she disappointed him by skirting the issue that he wanted answered.

One topic that was not discussed -- which Jackson and Gallagher feel should be addressed -- is better benefits for veterans. They hope to see more on that in the future.