Laura Bush calls McCain a real hero

WASHINGTON, Sept. 2 (UPI) -- Republicans have an exciting ticket in John McCain and Sarah Palin, first lady Laura Bush told the party's convention in St. Paul, Minn.

"We have a real American hero, John McCain, and a strong ... and proven government reformer, (Alaska Gov.) Sarah Palin," Bush said in her last appearance at the Republican National Convention as the nation's first lady.

"I'm proud that America's first female vice president will be a Republican woman," she said to robust applause. "Women have always played an important role in our party."

Bush listed her husband's accomplishments in areas of education, judicial appointments, faith-based initiatives, and medical relief in Africa.

"You might call that change you can really believe in," Bush said, poking fun at a Democratic campaign slogan.