Rose's Blog

Presidential candidates continue to notch up their efforts to gain voters in southwest Missouri.

In what it recognizes as a longtime Republican stronghold, Senator Barack Obama's campaign is starting a grassroots campaign effort among Ozarks war veterans.  Those service men and women say they fought for their country - now they'll fight for its next leader.

A roundtable discussion is an effort to ramp up Obama support. Service men and women are sharing memories of their mission abroad and vision for this country.

"This is the most important election I've voted in because it's going to save our country," says Jack Hembree, a veteran for Obama.

Just days after John McCain told Disabled American Veterans the Walter Reed scandal was a disgrace unworthy of this nation, local veterans are calling the candidate out.
Walter Reed."

Those gearing up for a grassroots effort argue health care and VA services are primary issues needing attention from presidential candidates.

 "Medical care is important, not just for veterans, but everyone in this country," says Hembree.

When it comes to reaching civilians, the campaign recognizes the weight these war veterans carry.

"It's about talking to everyone because of the credibility people give to veterans on national security issues," says Phil Carter, Obama's National Vets Director.

While this group says it respects the service of its opponent, it worries John McCain's military upbringing might be detrimental to the needs of the entire nation.

"He lived in that cocoon and doesn't know the problem civilians or even enlisted men and women in the service face," says veteran Ed Janosick.

John McCain supporters say their candidate has always put his country first--whether as a candidate or citizen.  They add McCain doesn't need to make campaign stops overseas to boost foreign policy credentials and already has the experience and judgment needed to be Commander in Chief.