The end of October 2008 my position was eliminated and I am currently on unemployment. However, I would rather be working. Today, the position that the company eliminated in October 2008, has again been posted. Exact same position. Should I not get first preference for this position. I was not terminated for any other reason than the position was eliminated. I also was told by the CEO that it had nothing to do with my performance, but rather was more cost effective to move the office I was working in to another department, which had no need for the position I was in. I was also told to apply for any job that is posted, if I wish to do so.

No, you do not have to be given first preference for the exact same position (unless there happens to be a binding employment contract that guarantees that which I doubt there is).

You'll need to apply for any openings as your employer noted.