by Margaret Hudson

Created on: October 24, 2008

The citizens of the United States will vote in 11 short days to elect a new president. This historic election will either place the first African American in that office, or the first female Vice President in that office. As a proud veteran of the United States Navy (1982-1985), I have to ask: Which candidate is the best suited to be the Commander-In-Chief? Which one, as a veteran, would you be willing to serve under?

Admittedly, I'm no political expert. I don't know near as much as I should. This political process is, in effect, a job interview. Although there are many facets to the Presidency, the position of Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Services concerns me most, as we are a nation at war. You can have whatever opinions about that war, it is a fact that needs to be dealt with. The new administration will enter office with fighting forces on two fronts. Although the present state of the economy, environmental issues, human rights, and multiple other issues face the new President, nothing can take a backseat to the welfare of our brave volunteers who proudly serve under the ensign of the United States. Let us look at the candidates with this in mind.

Barack Obama presents himself as the candidate of change. Change. Change. What does he want to change? In his interview September 7, 2008 on "Meet the Press", Mr. Obama stated that he wished to change the American flag, as it was "a symbol of oppression" to many nations. He also stated his wish to change our national anthem, because the phrase "bombs bursting in air" is too "warlike". He is in a job interview for the position of President of the United States, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He has limited senatorial experience, and no military experience. He and his wife have admittedly attended flag burning ceremonies in the past. Will he instill pride and confidence in our military troops? Is he a Commander-In-Chief that you would be willing to serve under?

John McCain has a reputation as a maverick. He has been known to go off on his own if he disagrees with party lines. He has 26 years experience as an United States Senator. His military record is well known. He served with distinction, and was held as a prisoner of war. That experience alone would have felled a lesser man, but through all the abuses and hardships he maintained his dignity, and his pride in this nation. Mr. McCain has also expressed a desire for changes and improvements. However, he does not wish to completely alter the concept of the United States, but rather fix the problems that exist to enhance this nation. Will he instill pride and confidence in our military troops? Is he a Commander-In-Chief that you would be willing to serve under?

A registered voter in the United States has certain responsibilities. Among these is to be well informed, and vote your conscience. It is my challenge to all my fellow Veterans - which of these men would you be willing to serve under? Which candidate - Barack Obama or John McCain - instills in you the confidence that you would be willing to place your life in his hands? Which man are you willing to place in control of the lives of your sons, daughters, grandchildren, and all those brave men and women who are currently voluntarily representing this country in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard? I implore you, Veterans and Americans, please do not enter the voting booth in 11 short days without a clear answer to this question. I am proud to be an American, and equally proud to be a Veteran. I know which of these men I would want as my Commander-In-Chief.

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