John McCain is a veteran, this is a fact. John McCain supports veterans, this is simply an opinion, and one not shared by many members of the armed forces. It is vital that Americans understand there is a key difference between simply being a veteran, and supporting veterans. The most recent congressional ratings released by Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) show what many veterans already know, John McCain is not as passionate about veterans issues as he would like the American public to believe. The ratings by IAVA, a non-partisan organization committed to bettering the lives of returning veterans, show Senator McCain with a "D" rating, while Senator Barack Obama was awarded a "B" rating.
John McCain has politicized his service and his status as a veteran in hopes of gaining political favor amongst voters. Again and again McCain has pretended to speak for all veterans and all members of the military. What Senator McCain fails to realize is that the American military represents a microcosm of American society. There are Democrats in the military, and there are Republicans. There are rural farm-boys in the military, and there are city-slicker's serving in our armed forces. There are members of the military who believe we need to remain in Iraq indefinitely, and there are those that feel we should leave tomorrow. The only thing every member of the United States military shares in common is their dedication and commitment to the United States of America, and their willingness to accept the call of duty and to sacrifice when called to do so.
Senator Obama understands the diversity within the military, and understands that the best way to represent the entire organization is to ensure that veterans receive the benefits and care they deserve, and the military is only sent into harm's way out of necessity. He understands that America has a sacred obligation to take care of the men and women returning from war. Senator Obama will ensure that veterans have the health care they need, when they need it. He will fully fund the VA, and increase the services and care currently offered.
Senator Obama also understands that the military is hurting, and that continuing to fight two wars with the current numbers of troops will further put a strain on our military, and will continue to effect retention and recruitment numbers. Senator Obama does not want to partake in a hasty withdraw from Iraq. He wants to responsibly begin to draw down troops in order to put pressure on the Iraqi people to take control. Allowing the Iraqi people this opportunity, and working with military and political leaders within the country will allow for a successful conclusion to this war that has lasted close to six years. Senator Obama will refocus our efforts in Afghanistan, and will remind Americans of the war that was neglected.
Most importantly Senator Obama will work to return our standing on the world stage. He will ensure that never again is the military sent off to war until every option has been exhausted. Senator Obama will work with world leaders, and will always put diplomacy ahead of armed conflict. With Senator Obama as commander-in-chief, men and women in the military can be assured that when they are called to duty it is out of necessity, and not simple choice. Senator Obama has all the qualities to be commander-in-chief, and has shown over and over his dedication and commitment to taking care of our nation's veterans. This commitment is exemplified in the latest IAVA ratings, and should be seriously considered by voters come November 4th.
Every American should appreciate and respect Senator McCain's service in Vietnam. There is no doubt that McCain served his country honorably, and sacrificed a great deal for this country. While his service should be respected, that doesn't mean his record should not be questioned. Veterans who have answered the call to duty deserve better than a "D" rating. Supporting veterans means more than simply supporting war.
Seth Lovell
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