CNN

Wow...the campaign did not even start McCain already start flip flapping. Thanks for at least saying you will stick to the issues at the beginning of the campaign. Now everybody can see you that you flip flap when you feel the heat. One should not have to serve in the army to love his country. A nation can only be a nation due to the collective contribution of the people who live in the country. Claiming those who served in the army love their country more than others is nothing more than arrogance. McCain, get off your high riding horse and get real. We love and respect what you did for your country but stop condescending approach it does not take you anywhere.

Jogn McCain;s son returned from the Marie Corp this spring..i wonder how many tours he will be FORCED to make?

A dream is a dream but some people want to keep on dreaming.

If I have a choice I'd rather be around Mountaineers than Sen. Obama and his professor friends (no offece), whe the real trouble come. Sen. Obama and his company (romanticists) has little faith and are in the blame game. (Excuse my broken English, there is a reason for this)

About significant majority of American people didn't protest against the war when the war started (government and the media included). Before that a group of extremists high jacked commercial airplanes and remember 9/11 (and the terrorist leader proudly praised for it, and Obama said he stopped wearing his flag pin).

Like Bush said, history will tell, we won't see the whole picture, till probably another half a century or so.

A good leader should change opinions as he/she/ learns new evidence and able to change mind if necessary (this is not flip flop). We cannot fix the past. Blaming Bush or anybody else who supported the war now is less constructive. What we are waiting from all the candidates is the convincing arguments come November and why we should vote for any of them.

Mc Cain Was a Pow in Viet Nam War.He almost died when his fighter
blast off there.To day is 5-26-2008 and many things are changing. IWhat happen if every body denies fighting for his country ?Can you risk your life because of some money for college ? Mc Cain 's statue
is standing in Hanoi as a criminal prison. IS He worth for nothing ?
I have a mouth and can sound it like a BIG GONG but I know Mc Cain's PRIDE.The general Election will be hold soon and the winner
is MC Cain If he and Obama are in the RACE.God BLess us All.

McCain will not win the nomination. real Republicans support Ron Paul!

It takes a lot of nerve to lie to the troops today.

Where is this Idea, that Dmeocrat's will vote for this Guy, coming from... They will be mostly Hillary's! Hillary in not a Democrat... Her Husband (Bill), is the Democrat... Republican's, real Republican's, will vote for John "The Good Guy" McCain... Just old Fashion Republican's.....

Yeh, right. GI Bill and Iraq. Now it not too generous for men and women serving to get such a bill because McCain wants votes. Pretence, pretence and pretence.

FedEx founder Frederick W. Smith advice. ..he want wsoldier working as a package handler..

Has Hillary Clinton found someone to do her dirty job on Obama yet?

She is waiting until June for possible disaster comes June against Obama when he maybe unable to continue, then she will get the nomination. Sorry Hillary you will not be in Obama ticket and Nothing will happen to him by God's grace. Amen. We pray for him and his family everyday and hours for protection and sense of leadership.

So, she has no plan to win the nomination unless something happen to Obama. Not funny guys, she need to be investigated and there should be more security in Obama's rallies.

Petty that a great woman end her bid for white house race with such a disgrace.

> Has Barack Obama been to Iraq in the last four years? NO

Have you? Then shut the hell up!

So let me get this straight... McCain is all for sustaining prolonged engagements all over the world but doesn't even have the decency to support a bill that would give just a few more (miniscule) benefits to the men and women that are supposed to do this work? Sound every bit like the corporate CEO that he actually is.

FACT:
a 21 year old soldier who's served 3 years in active duty has missed 3 years of a college opportunity. What does it matter how long one has served?

FACT:
go to Arizona(McSame state) and do a head count of all the Vets w/out adequate healthcare, homes, mental stablilty services, unemployment, etc

FACT:

Senator John McCain himself should know better, since he boasts of his verteran-status.. if there is one state that we should be able to look to for examples of his admiration and devotion to vets, its Arizona..and that aint happened ladies and gents

FACT:

We arnt calling him McSame for nothin'!

Hi Mr. McCain,
As a Veteran I find it totally unacceptable for a former Veteran, who does not serve and has gotten as far in life as he has, place another block or obstacle on our young people to move forward? Did he forget that this is a volunteer Army and that if we decide to stay in, we stay in regardless? Most people go into the military because we cannot afford to pay for college, so I guess he wants to keep the little guy down or make it harder for him to get up.
Sen. McCain you should be ashamed of yourself, you have become a true politician and have obviously forgotten where you came from. I am one of those NCO’s you talk about and my Dad served in Vietnam as you did and he is just as angry and upset as I am, and he was shot in the head while serving for the 101st Airborne Division, so he is not mentally all there and he even knows that you are dead wrong…..what a shame.
Happy Memorial Day…..JA!!!!

SI SE PUEDE AND WE WILL.

ALSO MCBIGOT LIKES LATINOS AS MUCH AS HE LIKES

AFRICAN AMERICANS. WE NEED TO TRY TO GET A HOLIDAY

JUST SO HE CAN VOTE IT DOWN. HE LOVES THE VETS TOO

BUT THEY CAN'T HAVE ANY MONEY FOR SCHOOL, & HE TREATS

OUR TAX DOLLARS AS HIS OWN. THE VETS WILL GET THEIR

COLLEGE MONEY FOR SURE. OBAMA WILL SE TO IT. HE WANTS

AN INTELLIGENT ARMED FORCES & NO VETS LIVING IN THE

STREET.

OK, let me see, John McCain is criticizing Barack Obama for not serving in the military. First off, was John McCain critical of President Bush's military service (which, because his family could afford to keep him out of active duty amounted to not even showing up for duty with the National Guard)? If he did, I missed that.

I am not going to take anything away from Senator McCain military service. He and others who fought in Vietnam are owed a debt of gratitude. But that doesn't mean they are owed the presidency.

Barack Obama game of age in a different time in our country. When we didn't have a draft and (for the most part during the time when he would have been in the prime for military service), when our country was not a war. For John McCain to not get that distinction shows that he is from a generation past - and frankly is a part of the old guard in political circles when military service was almost a requirement for public office.

This election needs to be about the future - not the past. Too bad, John McCain doesn't get that.

as a disable vet myself,i cant beleive that McCain or should i say McBush is a vet,he had a gi bill and went to school.I think he is to old and dont remember what the hell hes voting on,I think he need to be checked for PTSD or Old Timers

I believe that serving in the military is each persons choice. Good for John McCain for his service to our country. I have a brother that was shot in World War 2 and lost a lung, he was not presidential material either. Will his comments also make his choice for V.P. have to be a person that served , now that he has set the standard. Also his not wanting to vote for service men and women not to getting money for college after serving only three years is bull. Of course with his and Cindy"s money his kids did not need to worry about paying for college. OBAMA 08

Connie from Indiana

CNN likes to publish freely liberal comments here but they will never publish fair views here. Barack Obama, Jim Webb do not deserve to question John McCain. We have 100% faith in John McCain and on this memorial day, I wish him well and preay that he will be our next president. Barack, Jiom and liberals who write here, just go away.You have no right to criticise John McCain when it comes to military matters.

Some of these comments are ludicrous. All you Obama fans, get a clue! McCain's plan starts by giving a one-tour veteran $15,000/ yr for school. Then, for those who reenlist the benefits increase. What's so hard to understand about that?! Doesn't it make sense to give a soldier who reenlists an added bonus/incentive?! Shame on
B Obama for political grandstanding on the Senate floor, esp. when his opposition makes a valid argument. Instead of arguing the merits of his (Webb's) plan, he throws cheapshots. But then again, what more do people expect of Obama. I am more convinced now than ever before, that Obama does not belong in the Oval Office.

Well thank god that libertarian candidate Barr came out. This could get very , very interesting for Mccain.

SHAME YOU COULD NOT SEE THE BENEFIT OF THE GI BILL FOR OUR SOLDIERS.

In case you don't know, Senator McCain's son is currently serving in the Marine Corps, who just returned from Iraq in the spring.

Why would he vote against the military and his own son?

I have not decided whom to vote for in November. I only know I will not vote for Hillary, as I can no longer stand more American dynasties. No more Clinton or Bush!

However, I cannot stay silent watching people smearing a good man like Senator McCain.

We MUST invade Iraq because of a "mushroom cloud."
We MUST stay in Iraq because of a "genocide."

Republican foreign policy...in action!!

John McCain is making a serious mistake in not embracing the new G. I. Bill. The measure has enough bipartisan support to override any presidential veto. When President Bush signs the bill into law McCain will regret his "politically unpopular" stance.

Has Barack Obama been to Iraq in the last four years? NO

Has Barack Obama had discussions with
General Petraeus about Iraq? NO

Barack knows nothing and does nothing. NO Bama

McCain is unstable. How can he differentiate like that between people who put their lives on the line for their country. Maybe he could enact a bill that determines veterans' benefits on whether or not they were ever shot at. He's either playing some kind of game or is really out of touch with reality. How about sailors or commanders who might serve from afar and not directly on the battle field? Couldn't one tour in the field be more dangerous than ten tours from a commander's post, yet they are both veterans. Get a grip McCain. What the heck give Hillary some veteran's benefits. Wasn't she shot at by sniper's in Bosnia? I guess McCain never needed the GI Bill when he got back from duty.

One tour or 100. It is all the same Mr. McCain. These men and women are fighting in a war that you and Hillary voted to allow. The least we can do is give them education benefits for one single tour of duty in a war zone. I served 27 years active duty and anyone of our young people that you deem is not worthy of being rewarded with educational benifits can gladly claim any/all of my time in service.

Yes, your comments about the 100 years in Iraq may have been taken out of context, but your turning your back on this countries finest have not. I'm ashamed of your position and your pandering. What happened to the John McCain of 8 years ago is what I want to know.

Ray,
Way to go, distort McCain's words and then launch into a series of complete non sequiturs.
How clever.
*sigh*

As a veteran who served during a time when NO educational benefits were offered, I agree with Mccain. Full college tution for every single veteran will cost way too much and I think certain incentives should be in place to "earn" college money. For example, serving in a war zone, serving 10 + years, or 50% service connected disability. Just serving 3 years is not grounds for taxpayers to pay 4 years of college for someone. Obama is just pandering to the military and veterans to get their vote. McCain knows what he is talking about as far as the military and veterans are concerned. Obama doesn't know squat and should keep his mouth shut until he is willing to serve. He just want's to fill the services with AA's so that they can get a free ride thru college, thus creating a more educated population of AA's and on and on from there. Figure it out.

Senator McCain is definitely not for wars.
If he were for wars and revenge, he would have voted for waterboarding.

Today is the day we thank him for his honorable military service for our country. War is hell and Senator McCain knows it first hand. Although he wouldn't mind whatever you said here as he is all for the freedom of speech, I once read a posting, possibly by a veteran, that can be shared here on this Memorial Day. "You don't fit to lick John McCain's boots."

warning! DONT vote for McCain, vote for a democrat. please....

McCain Was For The military Before He Was Against........McCain doesn't care about the troops

get the troops put of Iraq!!! dont vote for McCain

Wow thats pretty cold McCain. Of course people are suprised the loosed lipped pressumptive Rep. nominee is against helping vets. But for those of us with friends and family who have already fallen and continue to risk their lives in Iraq I am more so Outraged! Where the hell do you get off, honestly. And anyone who supports this man is truly a disgrace to our country. How sickening to hear him actually say god forbid one tour vets educating themselves is a problem. Get em young and dumb right? There was a time fighting for this country meant something I thought I was a little young to see that disappear. To be honest I wasn't planning to vote but between to retardation of Billary and the axis of evil McBush. Obama you better keep at least a third of those crazy promises cause we are really heading down hill fast when Americans actively vote for callous individuals like McCain.

what ever you do, do not vote for McCain. If you are voting for Hillary, you should vote for Obama if Hillary dont win the nomination, and NOT McCain, because Hillary and Obama have the same politic issues, and they are both democrats. This is americas last chanse to show the world that they still are a country that many people look up to and that they still are good for something. I personly love america, and I just dont want the world to hate america because of a stupid, republican president, like Bush and McCain God Bless America!

Obama 08
democrat in Norway

Only one tour of duty in Iraq or Afghanistan? I guess that's like taking only one bullet or losing only one limb. It's a shame to see such a hero bent by the Republican attack machine into swift-boating the solidiers he claims to support to do damage control for a heinous vote.

Also, we have a volunteer uniformed service in this country, and no one should be chided for not volunteering for it. Commend and honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who did, and remember that personal choice and freedom are the cornerstones of American philosophy that those soldiers fight for, but at which social conservatives are so quick to chip away.

Give it up, ole man!!!! We don't want four more years of Bush!!!

Actually Gman, I think Ron Paul would make the best Sec. of Defense. Why, because he would truly think before using military force against another government.

5 supers for Obama!!
It makes me so happy!
Europe for Barack.

Withe love from the Netherlands

Hello, out there. These people are all volunteers, unlike the Viet Nam vets, who got nothing like what the Dems propose. They're there because they inaccurately judged that being in the military would be easier than going to high school.

McCain rightly recognizes the mixed motives here and rewards the genuine volunteer, as opposed to the guy trying to get out of something.

"And when our government forgets to honor our debts to you, it is a stain upon America's honor.”

...you mean, like, say... NOT SUPPORTING THE GI BILL???

You are a disgrace, McSame. Any "Democrat" that would even dream of voting for this fraud needs to stop pouting for a second and flex their brain muscles.

I find it very interesting that the one person who claims special knowledge of the US military tries his best to destroy it. Has Senator McCain thought that perhaps providing a better carrot at the end of a military member's tour or enlistment might encourage more folks to sign up or stay in? Has he thought for once that maybe our citizens need more than just honor to serve your country when we have leaders willing to send our young people into voluntary wars? If Senator McCain truly wants to maintain a strong military, then why doesn't he want to stop a purposeless war? Has anyone noticed that the military leaders (active or retired) don't support this nut?

I served in the military; and I rather see half of our military members separate from the military than have another American die in Iraq for no purpose at all. I am not against our country fighting wars. I am against throwing the lives of our people away for no purpose at all. If we are in Iraq for the purpose of preserving our interests in the oil of that region, then just go outside and realize that we FAILED and we already LOST the war. Senator McCain Bring our people home.

McCain is wrong on this issue. You can give service men and women generous benefits even during their first tour of duty. The benefits after the first tour of duty can be even more generous. There can still be a difference. Those individuals that serve even longer should be eligible for an additional set of benefits. We owe that to our military personnel whether they serve one tour of duty or more because they protect our freedom everyday.

McCain is forgeting that the G.I. Bill he had only required you to be HONERABLE DISCHARGED.But its just like McCain not to want to do anything for us Americans

You're looking better every day, John.

That's right, McCain doesn't take the back seat, that is reserved for the troops.

Please retire Sen. McCain. Your policies are selfish and unwanted. No McSame!

Thank all the troops for serving...every last one. You deserve every benefit that this country has to offer. No matter who you are or when you served , I support you. You make make me very proud.

OBAMA 08 & 12

4,080 young Americans killed in Iraq, AND COUNTING. "JUST TALK" sounds a lot better than "JUST WAR". Too bad John McCain and Hillary Clinton ignored the Intelligence Report as "JUST WORDS" and instead initiated the War In Iraq that has cost a Trillion Dollars, 27,000 casualties and 4,080 Americas killed AND COUNTING.

"JUST WORDS" and "JUST TALK" is starting to look pretty good after one walks through Arlington Cemetery and by the Viet Nam Memorial Wall. You have to pick you battles, both political and military. One presidential candidate has shown the discernment to know when to talk and when to fight!

Mike

I think Senator McCain fails to realizes is that it doesn't take 22 years in the the military to shatter a soldier's mind and body. 6 months in Iraq, or an IED, can do that quite easily. I would hate to see a young soldier coming back from Iraq being denied the benefits they need because someone who did 20 years pushing paper had more years then they did.

Here's a great Obama Administration:

Pres – Obama

VP – Kathleen Sebelius

AG – John Edwards

Sec State – Bill Richardson

Sec Defense – Jim Webb

John: How many more of America's best, it's young American men and women, must die in Iraq, while the War on Terror in Afghanistan is dealt with as a side issue. How many Americans needing health care, safe bridges and better schools will be ignored because John McCain and Hillary Clinton did not heed the Intelligence Report on their desk and voted to initiate the War in Iraq. Over 4,080 (and counting) Americans killed in Iraq because McCain and Clinton did not do their HOMEWORK.

SOME JUDGMENT EH! Tells you a lot about McCain's and Clinton's priorities! Done wonders for the American economy too and the US dollar. It's even starting to make the Canadian Dollar worth hanging onto (except your gasoline is 25-30 percent cheaper than our gas!

PS. Canadian have the highest casualty and mortality rates in Afghanistan over the last 3 years – makes foreigners (including Canadians) appreciate the heavy lifting that the American people have been doing for years. We take a different approach to CUBA and IRAQ than does the US government – maybe there is some wisdom to Obama's approach to foreign affairs regarding Cuba, Iraq and the judicious use of America's resources and servicemen and women.

"Just talk" Clinton and McCain have said to castigate Obama,as if words are of no effect. Then Clinton and McCain get all up in arms because he proposes talks with your enemies.

I'm sure that the families of most Americans who are remembered today would hope that there was a little more "talk" and a little more Homework done by the new Commander in Chief before initiating the next foreign war.

Mike

It's obvious McCain has forgotten Navy Core Values... Honor, Courage, Committment. Anyone running for POTUS should be committed to ensuring our Vets receive all they deserve. A college education is a small price to pay for those willing to put on a uniform and fight for the freedom and liberty we all enjoy.

Everytime I hear him give a speech it sounds like he is talking to a bunch of 5th graders.

OBAMA 08 !

FLOBBER??? THE FLIP FLOPPER.
Remember this?????
Why would a President McCain vote to help Veterns when a Senator McCain would not?

August 2001
McCain votes against increasing the amount of cash available for veterans' medical care

March 2004
McCain votes against creating a reserve fund for veterans' medical care

March 2006
McCain votes against increasing veterans' medical services funding

May 2006
McCain votes against additional funding to the VA for health care facilities
This from a man who has consistently voted AGAINST veteran benefits. Doublespeak from the "Straight talk express" that would make Hillary pale in comparison:

– Voted AGAINST an amendment providing $20 billion to the VA’s medical facilities.

– Voted AGAINST providing $430 million to the VA for outpatient care “and treatment for veterans,” one of only 13 senators to do so.

– Voted AGAINST increasing VA funding by $1.5 billion by closing corporate loopholes.

– Voted AGAINST increasing VA funding by $1.8 billion by ending “abusive tax loopholes.” [

– Voted AGAINST a $650 million increase in veterans’ medical care funding. [8/1/01]

Not ot mention his resistence against the recent "GI" bill.

My question to the “under 30 generation” who for the first time in their lives “found their voice”… in Obama…..where have you been? Why not until now have you not exercised your right to vote? You place your faith in a man who has not been tested, pocesses little record of accomplishment and little to no experience in international or economic matters. For shame!

Life to you folks seems rather simple. I suppose in your minds, Obama offers a sense of entitlement - your time has come. The simple fact is that if you look past his rhetoric there is little substance. You buy into his chant of “change..yes we can” with little thought as to the complexities involved in bringing about change. Some of you worship him like he is a “messiah”, here to save us from ourselves. He may in fact be anointed the nominee, and you like him, will think nothing can stop you. The simple and relevant truth is……. One can fool some of the people some of the time…but not all the people…. all the time.

McCain may represent a party for which I may not find a lot of common ground however, I respect his honor, integrity and sacrifice to our country, the scars of which he still bears as a testament to his courage…. And I will place my hope for change in him. He has earned my respect and most likely my vote and the votes of millions of others who feel the same way.

For the sake of our country and that of our future….thank god there are more of us than you, and we will not allow this fantasy to continue past Nov. DNC party chairs and uncommitted superdelgates…..you either stop this false prophet now….or we will do so with our votes come Nov.

Proud Army US Combat Veteran, you have just said it as it should be said. Should there any difference in the time one died during this god forsaken war or should there be a difference in injuries etc. This McCain is such an overaged moron. He wants the good American citizens to send their loved ones to fight a baseless war which he sanctioned and is refusing to compensate appropriately. Of course this is the Republican agenda. And this is the one disgruntled Hillary supporters are purporting to vote for in November. I'll burn my vote than vote Republican.

I agree with Proud Us Army Combat Vet statement. Being a vet myself McCain stance on the bill is a stupid one. How is being in the military two or three years unfair to the vets who have been in 10-20 yrs. Is it fair for the soldier who has been in only one two yrs. to be serving his or her second tour to the war zone and a soldier who has been in 20 to not have done one, but should be able to recieve full college benefits and the 2 0r 3 yr. soldier should not. Basically what you are saying is thank you for leaving your family, risking your life, possibly getting injured to the point where they can no longer use you in the military, but you just have not been in long enough. Thank you, but you just don't qualify. I don't think you qualify McCain.

THE MILITARY HAS ALWAYS HAD A CULTURE OF NOT

COMPLAINING. WITH THEIR EDUCATION ALSO COMES A MIND

OF THEIR OWN,THATCAN ANALYZE THE SITUATION & THEY ARE

NOT SO SUSCEPTIBLE TO CRAP FROM THE LIKES OF MCCAIN

THAT HS MILKED HIS POW STATUS TO THE HILT.

John McCain's GI bill policy stinks. My father is a veteran with 21 years of service , my brother in law with 24 yrs,and my niece who has 5 yrs of military service. Mililtary personnel do not make much money unless they are a top officer. They deserve 4 yrs of college tuiton paid in full.
My grandson is a high school basketball star in WA state and he has been offered a 4 year scholarship to a college that would cost $150,000.00 for a 4 yr tuition. What kind of country offers atheletes a better education than a person who puts his life on the line each day for us to have freedom and a safe environment to live in. Come on John McCain how low can you go as a veteran and war hero? I think you are senile in your old age.

McCain is too old to lead this nation, he might forget important issue about our national security which can cause serious problems for Americans. so please John retire and go spend time with Cindy before your time is up. a word for a wise is quite sufficient

McCain has lived a Democratic Party style of life all his life....How can he be a Republican?

MORE LIP SERVICE FROM A FRAUD.

HE HAS NO IDEA WHAT OUR SOLDIERS HAVE TO GO THROUGH

TO SUPPORT THEMSELVES & THEIR FAMILIES. HE LEFT THE

WIFE THAT WAITED FOR HIM ALL THOSE YEARS & MARRIED

PILL POPPER & HER MONEY. THEN ALSO STARTED TO DIP HIS

GRUBBY FINGERS IN OTHER POCKETS. MCBIGOT CLOAKES

HIMSELF IN THE AMERICAN FLAG, WHILE COMMITTING SHAME.

we have enogh deserters from the american armed forces in canada as it is. these guys sighned up for the freebies but when things got tough they ran . what are we supposed to do with them use them to replace our ouwn soldiers who died fighting your war. no thanks at least mccain's plan as more flexibility and i think unlike a lot of me people many soldiers would love to be able to have their children get ab education while they serve their country those people are more likely to be serious about drfending their country. how many terrorist have attacked the usa since bush got on their case.

The human mind is a fragile thing and thousands of brave men and women are going to have to struggle to keep an even keel after just one tour in a horrific experience. Then you have the permanently maimed who will need attention to both their bodies and their minds without having a vehicle to further their futures through some form of eduation.

Perhaps the people who keep commenting on John McSame should consider altering their comments to John McShame!!!!! What a phoney war monger is a better description than the over blown title of war hero.

Well I dont think it matter how long you have served in the military to recieve the same type of benefits across the board. What if a 1 year term soldier or sailor loss their life is it less valuble. I think not.

McBush thinks that because of his hero status he can be a warmonger and thumb his nose at the American GIs denying them the opportunity for additional education. What a shame! He is the elitist candiate of privedge and rank. He daddy and grand daddy were admirals and he was a naval academy graduate. He led a life of priviledge growing up and married a heiress of millions and lives a life of priviledge now. His attitude is to hell with the average grunts. He is the flip flopping, pandering candidate of priviledge.

I am an Obama Supporter who actually like Senator McCain. However, I respectfully disagree with the notion that you cannot give the same benefit to a vet who served one term. The fact to the mater is once you serve and fight for your country whether for 1 year or 100 years you deserve the best opportunities. I did not serve, the least I can do is help and make sure those who served are well taken care of.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH TO ALL OF OUR VETS, WE LOVE YOU, YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR PRAYER!
GO BLESS THE VETS
GO BLESS OUR NEXT PRESIDENT
GOD BLESS AMERICA

OBAMA/WHOMEVER '08

I certainly believes Senator McCain understands the issues affecting veterans. Therefore, veterans should overwhelming support Senator McCain's campaign for President of the United States.

Is this the same bill that he didn't sign because he said it did nothing for "retention". This is the man who wants to thank our troops for their service by denying them the opportunity for a college education....as promised when they signed their contracts to serve. If they have college as an option, they are less likely to re-up after their contract is completed. So, take away their opportunities and leave them feeling forced to stay in the military. Talk about back door draft.

Yeah...he's for the military alright.

Good for Sen. McCain and he should also point out that in order to access the war and conditions of Iraq you have to go there which Obama hasn't done.

Has anybody seen the VP today? Funny how he hides on this day. He must feel guilty about all of the men and women that have died for him, George Bush and John (Bush) McSame lies to go into Iraq.
NoMcSame As Bush
Obama08

I could care less if my taxes are raised to support healthcare,eductation, etc., for our troops. I will gladly pay it. Though I don't have any relatives in the war right now, it makes me extremely sad to hear about their suffering and getting no help when they "finally" come back home. It is unfair to send these men and women into a war (Iraq) that should never have been waged and us not take care of them. Our soldiers are heroes and so are their families. We must take better care of them. If McCain thinks we shouldn't help out then why doesn't he dust off his old uniform and go to Iraq and fight. Wait!!! Isn't he covered 100% on his benefits?????

I love our troops but I detest McCain. These are Americans fighting in Iraq and we must take care of our own.

JUST WAIT UNTIL YOU GET THE NOMINATION!!!! WE WILL GET TO KNOW THE WHOLE TRUTH ABOUT YOU – THE TRUTH THAT IS NOT FINDING ITS WAY INTO MAINSTREAM MEDIA UNTIL THE NOMINATION IS OVER.

GOT GIVE CREDIT TO THE CLINTON HATERS THAT HAVE MADE OBAMA'S NOMINATION POSSIBLE. THIS IS THE CANDIDATE THEY WANT FOR JOHN MCCAIN.

JOB WELL DONE – 4 MORE EXCRUCIATING YEARS

STOP McCain!

So not only does he want to fight a war for 100 years, but doesnt want to help to soldiers that he so claims to love......I would not even vote Mccain if I were a repub., and that is the God Honest truth. bring our troops home, we can not be so selfish.

If not for some bad republican leaders, we may need have need for this holiday, to celebrate the fallen heroes, and let their relatives mourn them, Please beware if you are planning to throw away your vote to another republican, its not worth it for life.
Vote obama, and let the party begin!!

MCSHAME'S WORDS: “The sacrifices made by veterans deserve to be memorialized in something more lasting than marble or bronze or in the fleeting effect of a politician's speeches.

WHAT A HYPOCRIT - MCSHAME DOESN'T FEEL THEY DESERVE A COLLEGE EDUCATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MCSHAME SIGNED FOR THEM TO FIGHT IN A WAR BASED ON A LIE WHICH HE SIGNED AND NOW STANDS THERE USING EMPTY WORDS!!!!

I don't want Obama to bring change. We need dollars. Clinton/McCain

Having spent 20+ years in service to my country in the U.S. Navy, I find it unfathomable that anyone, especially someone running for POTUS, would vote against Webb's version of the GI Bill. Servicemembers who leave after only one enlistment are those who need benefits the most. Not officers (who by their very commission are already college educated), but junior enlisted who 'volunteer' because they have no employment opportunities nor money to attend college. They deserve this benefit for no other reason than the fact that they are willing to put on a uniform and serve their country. If retention is truly a concern, perhaps McCain and his fellow Senators should explore the possibility of bringing back the draft. It's time the fight for freedom and liberties enjoyed by all, be borne by all.

Bush weaseled his way out of military service. Mabe McCain's right about not listening to someone who didnt serve. But I wonder if McCain was brave enough to tell Bush that.

Obama is a man of honour and integrity. That is why he will always do right for those who fought and for all Americans on other issues.

Anyone foolish enough to vote for a senile, boriing, dumb idiot cannot be reasoned with anyway. McCain barely got a college degree. Dumb is not what we need.

More Republican double-talk:
-Support the troops by staying in Iraq
-Support the troops through stop-loss
-Support the troops by shopping

But don't you dare:
-Give them adequate education funding
-Give them enough rest between tours
-Diagnose them with PTSD
-Give them clean water, body armor, or ammo

Forget 4 more years of Bush, McCain is 100 more years of Bush

Obama/Carter just started wearing flag pin for votes.

YAWNSVILLE...... McCane is one boring old fart

Dear Sen. McCain,

Would you honestly tell the voters that Sen. Webb would put together to a unfair package for veterans that he and many others have worked hard to support? If you were honest you would have supported their bill and later work with them to improve it to be even better for the veterans. Any person who is really a team player will not have any problem with that, unless that person's ego is the hinderance aspect! Good leadership qualitiy includes ability to be good team player and ability to inspire others to come up with great ideas, and support them whole heartedly in order to realize them!

Mr. McCain, I know you are not that stupid, but let me tell you something anyway. If a man or woman would get tuition after 3 years of duty, yes, a lot of them will do just 3 years and leave. BUT, would you or would you not get a hell of lot more to do the 3 years??????? That way, maybe we could have enough to get rid of Blackwater, KBR, and DynaCorp, and all of the rest of the soldiers for profit that we have around the world and bring back the dignity that my soldiers have died for. Maybe? They deserve EVERYTHING that they ask for, unlike what you so-called "people who care" would give these kids!

"To question your government is not unpatriotic — to not question your government is unpatriotic."

The problem with McBush and the current Bush administration... in fact, the whole right-wing Republican movement... is that somehow, questioning the path your government is taking has become synonymous with being "unpatriotic".

Nothing could be farther from the truth and the quote made by the R. Senator from Nebraska says that well....

If I were to provide a quote that sums up McCain, it would be Thomas Jefferson's "He who knows best knows how little he knows. "

And McBush told you today (and yesterday) how he knows best.

Obama/Hagel 2008 & 2012

McCain wants to preserve the GI Bill GWBush has now.

I can't believe his argument is if VETs get great benefits then many will leave.

McCain has forgotten our heroes who are found in skid row.

If Obama can introduce a GI BIll that gives great benefits like, education, home funding, training programs, and increased pension benefits; THEN SIGN ME UP.

I'll go fight for OBAMA if this is what Vet's are receiving.

McCain is all backwards and it's unbelieveable!

Mr. McTrash is trying to speak again. The pressure of the GE will take even more toll on this man. I suggest his small circle of supporters think seriously about the VP position. Anyway, who knows what he stands for? I don't think he knows himself. He is just so glad after 20 years to be representing the republican party he would say and do anything. Well, McTrash this is one vote you will NEVER get.

Man of intergrity...what a joke. A man who leaves his sick and dying wife for money. First Lady more like First _ _ _ _. This word rhymes with mut.

America has Republicans fatigue.

Obama/Jim Webb 08/12

Larry Buchas THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!

For exposing McCain on factual matters. With facts and independent thinking we can overcome the McSame and Clinton pandering!

The reason McCain did not vote for the Vet bills was because they were so loaded with pork spending and making government bigger. I would like to see someone come up with a bill that would stop all of this junk being added to good bills. What do the candidates have to say about that? Line item veto? Where is the common sense in all of this?

McSame, you are a creep. To not vote for the GI bill that would give Gi's the ability to go to college under the GI Bill shows what a dirt bag you are....

I think mccain would be worst than bush if given a chance. if HIS failure to sign the GI bill to show it, i don't know what else will. the guy has way to much baggage to be president......

Larry has said exactly what needs to be said on this subject. I can't imagine why McCain feels like he needs to disapprove any bill that will help our troops.

Obama '08

McCains only goal is to enrich himself and his creepy wife.The manchurian candidate will take this country back to the age of the knuckle draggers.

MCSame could care less about the veterans
There are many vets and pows ....unfortunately you never hear much about them
MCSame is the only *glorified one*
with all those *no votes* listed above by Larry its quite obvious MCSame could care less about he veterans!!!

Obama\Jim Webb , Joe Biden ,Chuck Hagel or Bill Richardson 08
Anyone but MCBush!!!!
oh yes and Senator John Edwards for Attorney General!!

I am a military vet,and I will vote for OBAMA.
I have done 2 tours in Afghanistan And 2 in Iraq .
How much more would I have to do get the proper respect from Bush/Cheney ,and now MCCain.

Larry Buchas....thousand thanks for a well written and factual statement.

I only hope that those miniscule minds could read it and understand it, but again, they are MINISCULE MINDS and will vote for the fraud instead of the next Commander in Chief: Mr. Obama

VETERANS AGAINST MC CAIN......MC CAIN RHINESTONE HERO
go google it and you´ll find out! and be ohhhhh soooo surprised or maybe not because of your MINISCULE MINDS.

McCain should be ashamed of himself. His self righteous and self important rebuke of Obama on the GI bill suggesting he, McCain is the only one who can understand the vets and the military and implying that anyone who disagrees with him is unAmerican and unpatriotic smacks of a 3rd Bush term.

It is a slap in the face to all the vets and current military and to Webb, Warner and Hagel along with all the other senators, Republican and Democrat alike, who voted in an overwhelming veto proof margin for the Webb GI bill.

Webb and Warner are former secretaries of the Navy for crying out loud.

You want more of the same, vote McCain.

My vote is for Obama.

this man was a war hero yes
now he wants revenge
he is a war monger.

it is all he wants to talk about

god bless our usa and a our troops

Obama is an idiot who will say and do anything to get a vote. Shame

I am finally done with the two party system especially the democratic party. I am 33 and have always voted democratic but not this year.

"Daddy Warbucks" wants the soliders to stay in the military a longer length of time to get the better benefits. If these soliders are willing to put their lives on the line for this country we should do everything possible for them no matter what the length of service. The soliders need the benefits as well as better health care, education benefits and mental health care.

MCCAIN..

STOP BEING CHEAP AND FULLY SUPPORT THE NEW GI BILL !

Mccain is a good man, a hero but we cannot have him as the president.

Also I am just wondering whether we should change the constitution by adding requirements to be the president-

served in a armed force

Then earse the names of the presidents who didn't (including dodged)

That means Bill clinton and Dick Cheney (Dodged)
george Bush (No records.........)

For sixteen years we had a president without experience in forces

Also Ronald reagan

OMG we have to delete the names of many as half of the presidents from the History

Apparently, Mr. McCain doesn't think that three years in Iraq quite entitles one to a scholarship. But hey, McCain was a vet (albeit an independently wealthy one), so he obviously knows what's best for all veterans. And what they apparently need is less benefits. Thanks, Senator!

you don't support our veterans rights to a full education,after you send them to war?did you stab your fellow soldier's in the back,during the vietnam war,too?what a pathetic politician.you,sir,are unpatriotic ,and the reason [along with bush and hillary],for running our country into the ground!

O well, McSame is toast anyways !

Have you seen the latest on the Internet BLOGS concerning McCain's pastor, Dan Yeary?
First we had Wright saying 9/11 was God's punishment, then Hagee saying the breaking of the levees after Katrina was God's punishment.
Now, get this!, Yeary is on record as saying God told Noah to build an ark before inflicting punishment?
Is it no longer safe for any politician to belong to a religious organisation?
-
It is true that the Wright situation is different than the Hagee/Parsley one. Obama attended the church for 20 years. However it only took McCain 20 minutes to fall head over heels for these bad interpreters of Biblical prophesy.
You can view McCain on UTube calling them 'great leaders of America', "spiritual guides". who "should speak for his campaign". You can't find Obama saying Wright should run the country! Yes, that is a big difference.

maccain likes to be refered as a american hero . he has a long ways to go to get to that status.he is just like the clintons sorry peathic
excuse for a human beging

McCain went tot he Naval Academy. He got went for 4 years for free. He only had to serve a 5 year committment, but chose to do 20. Why can't veterans now do the same. His position is why educate them-if you do they will leave. We only need stupid foot soldiers. Look at Army recruiting. They will take darn near any one, including felons.

Obama has a bad habit of "lecturing" – whether it's about the Vets, the war in Iraq, Hillary Clinton, or anything else. McCain doesn't mince words. All Obama does is "use" words for his own self-aggrandizements. I can't believe he is still "winning". As once said, "there's a sucker born every minute" and America seems to be saturated with them.

McCain hasn't done anything for veterans. Recently he didn't vote for veterans to receive a stimulous check nor has he done anything to enforce veteran benefits. McCain needs to talk about his service to Bush/Cheney and their non-service to the military while he voted to send our troops into a senseless war. McCain is no more than an opportunist.

if you're using sports metaphors, then coach is more relevant for president, do you want a coach for national team who has never proved his skill or one with vast experience, and who was tortured for 5 years for the team, by an opposing team, could have been benched but kept playing

Larry Buchas!!!!

Wow, finally an intellectual. Thank you for doing your research, instead of just stating how poor his record is, cite examples. You are someone to be admired. Sorry that you effort is wasted in this forum, people only want to hear how inexperienced, or sexist Obama is. Maybe they will wake up soon..

all i gotta say is john mccain starting to look more and more like Bob Dole,much respect to Obama and much respect to republican Chuck Hagel and Ron Paul!!!!!

Personally, I hope to see an Obama/Hagel ticket. Obama because I believe he has what it takes to bring change and Hagel, because he is also a Vietnam vet, a critic of the war in Iraq, is for comprehensive immigration change, and isn't afraid to cross over political lines to get the job done right.

Compare that to McBush's so-called "maverick" status and I think you see the difference between a poser and a true patriot.

No John doesn't take the back seat, he's right up front on tax breaks for his special interests and the vets can get some of the trickle down crumbs!

John McCain is all for sending troops into harms way but, ask him to "PAY" for those troops then he wants to borrow into the future. Well John, if you were up front, then you would tax your rich friends (and wife) to pay for George Bush and your adventures!

John McCain is perfectly happy to tax the very people he wants to send out to serve and give special interest breaks to his rich friends.

Wake up America – It's time the corrupt GOP got out of Washington!

go

"On Monday, McCain said again that he felt Webb’s bill unfairly provides the same benefits to troops who had only served one tour of duty as it did to those who serve longer."

Riddle me this: if I get shot on my first day of my first tour, or the last day of my 3rd tour, am I any less dead in the former scenario than I am the latter scenario?

Will my family grieve for me less in the first scenario than in the second?

BTW, who are the "one-tour wonders" in this new era of Stop-Loss?

Senator McCain, my daddy always said the guilty dog barks loudest. You should have voted for the bill, and let your actions do all the announcing.

Shame on you, sir.

Why does McBush always seem so... angry? He rants and raves and says nothing about how he would make lives better for the real people of this country.

He's just TOO old, too mean-spirited. A hypocrite, as well. What this country needs is change, not more of the same old white men running the show any way they want.

Clintons gave us corporate out-sourcing and deregulation of just about everything.

Bushes gave us war, big government and nothing to show for it but debt.

It's time for change. Yes, we can.

Let me put this presidential race into perspective using a sports analogy. If you were a NBA franchise and were trying to decide between drafting a young superstar, i.e. a Lebron James or Kobe Bryant, or aquiring a run down "seasoned" vet, like a Robert Horry (no disrespect), who would you pick? I'd say 9 out of 10 would pick Lebron or Kobe. Obama is of the stature of a Lebron or Kobe. McCain is like Robert Horry. Most people are probably like, "robbert who?" My point exactly...

Dear McCain,

Obama is looking out for the Vets that are now found homeless and with nothing in the streets. Obama also wants better benefits to take care of our war heroes in an effort to encourage more enlistments. Obama will increase education benefits, severance pay benefits, and home funding benefits.

Mr. McCain, your argument is flawed when you discard opposition from Obama simply because he never wore the uniform. What you are basically saying is we can't talk to you if we don't serve in the military ourselves.

Your "DOUBLE TALK EXPRESS" STOPS HERE. Ron Paul wore the uniform and you avoided him like the plague in debates. McCain you avoided Ron Paul because he verbally owned you. You couldn't deal against Ron Paul and you're going to do worse with Obama.

So will you only talk to these Facist Jacksonian Republicans that support the idea of putting away their individual civil liberties, in order to make the nation stronger through military means alone.

STOP McCain!

McCain doesn't care about the troops.

No country for [cranky] old men!!

I adore McCain and am so glad he's finally going to be our president. It's about time.

I am a Navy veteran and I voted and will vote again for Obama.
What kind of person would hold out or refuse benefits to vets just to try to keep them from getting out of the service? Give Americans a reason to fight and we will lay it all down, it has been proven time after time. You used 911 to get the good natured Americans to do you dirty work in Iraq. Osama is still out there and your daddy Georga Bush never even says his name. Shame on you John McSame As Bush.
CNN do a poll with veterans and see what we think about McSames choice not to vote for the new GI Bill.
Obama08
Keith (tell it like it is) Olbermann Press Secretary

What an American hero John McCain is. He has sacrificed in unimaginable ways for his country. I believe he is a decent, well-intentioned human being. He will always have my respect for this. He will not, however, be the kind of President our country needs so desperately right now. Obama ’08.

Mr. McCain says Barack can't speak on veterans issues because he served the military and Barack did not.

Did he ever tell Bush and Cheney the same?

The truth is John McCain has repeatedly voted against supporting veterans.

McCain Voted Against $19 Billion for Military Hospitals. In February 2006, McCain voted against an amendment that would have provided for at least $19 billion for military health facilities, paid for by eliminating tax cuts for the wealthiest earners.
*Senate Amendment 2735, Amendment failed.

McCain Voted Against Legislation to Provide $2.8 Billion For Medical Care for Veterans. McCain voted against a 2006 Democratic amendment that would have provided $2.8 billion to increase veterans’ medical care.
*Senate Amendment 149, Amendment failed.

McCain Voted Against Establishing $1 Billion Trust Fund to Provide Improvements to Military and Veterans’ Health Facilities. McCain voted against an Amendment to establish a $1 billion trust fund to provide improvements to health facilities that treat veterans and military personnel to lapse on December 31, 2006.
*Senate Amendment 2735

McCain voted Against Adding $1.5 billion to Veterans’ Medical Services in 2007 Budget by Closing Corporate Tax Loopholes. McCain voted against an Amendment offered by Democrats to increase medical services funding to veterans by $1.5 billion in 2007.
*Senate Amendment 3007

McCain Voted Against Mandatory Funding of $6.9 Billion in 2007 Budget and $104 Billion Over Five Years for Veterans' Health Care.
McCain voted against a Democratic amendment to provide a mandatory stream of funding of $6.9 billion in Fiscal Year 2007 and $104 billion over five years for veterans' health care.
Senate Amendment 3141

September 2007: McCain voted against the Webb amendment calling for adequate troop rest between deployments.

Yeah, because that one tour of duty isn't anywhere close to the number of tours needed for your 100 yr war. Stand up for our veterans rights to a college education. Cut the BS. George W's 3rd Term. More of McSame...