Every Obama supporter has a story. They each have a unique background that shapes why they are voting for Barack. And veterans are no different. All across the country, veterans are coming together to support Obama for numerous reasons. Here are just a few of their stories...
Thomas in Tennessee:
My vision of the United States is one of greatness tempered with understanding. I envision my President as a man who knows where I have been, who knows what it takes to make ends meet and who will listen. I can see Barack standing at a gas pump, filling his own vehicle and wondering why he is paying $4.00 a gallon for the fuel. I see him wondering why soldiers are dying everyday and being forsaken at home. I see him wondering why grandmothers are worried about paying for their medical care or freezing to death. I see him wondering why middle class Americans are thinking, "Do I pay this new mortgage payment or buy food?" I see him wondering why a middle class family is at the bank cashing in their retirement savings to pay for their child's college education. And finally, I see him filled with a desire, a desire to be a president who not only listens but who also hears. I know he will not forsake his people but will be a President of monumental stature.
Jim in Florida:
It's time for a change. My name is Jim and I am a retired US Army veteran. I served our country in uniform for over 20 years. I have been a Republican for the last 20 years but then something changed. I changed. I found something that can reshape America and the view that the world has of our great nation. I found something that can inspire my generation and the next generation of Americans. It has inspired me to examine my core beliefs and dedicate myself to asking what is right for America at this crucial point in our Nations history.Senator Obama's message of transformation had led me to rededicate myself to participate in a cause greater than myself, to examine what truly matters to me. I care deeply for this country and the time for change is now! We have an opportunity to change the world and inspire people in a global community. I support Barrack Obama for President of the United States! Change is on the way.
Ken in Minnesota:
We need someone who understands the meaning of the middle class as President. Someone who is not blinded to the existence of the working American by privilege or status. Someone who is more interested in the humanity of America than being lobbied by the status quo or the desire to be a career politician. America needs a fresh voice. A sincere voice. An overwhelming American voice. America does not need another politician. America needs and deserves a President that will show the faces and the will of the American people, not the facade of the personal wealth of those in the American government. There is no single person better suited to accomplishing this task than Barack. The paradigms under which the many past administrations have operated are no longer valid. Our country needs change. He is the instrument of that change.
Chad in Colorado:
I am on active duty military, and have, along with many of my peers, voted for the Republican Party. I am not happy about the direction that the Republicans have taken this country and I am truly excited about Barack Obama. I believe he is sincere, and that he will take our country forward. I've served two combat tours in Iraq, and I think we need a change in our current policy. I feel that Obama can deliver that change. I've never researched a candidate in so much depth, and I absolutely agree with his position on several key issues. I am excited about his potential as the next President, and I am committed to helping any way I can, even if in a small way by donating. I am surprised that many of my fellow soldiers are of the same opinion. Barack Obama is indeed the candidate that offers the most hope to propel us into a bright future.
Chris, who is stationed in Japan:
Let me start by saying that I never would have believed that I would find myself on a Democratic candidate's website pledging my support. I am a 34-year-old Iraq war vet and the spouse of a Navy nurse stationed in Okinawa, Japan. In addition, I am a card-carrying Republican and former Congressional staffer for a Southern California congressman and political consultant for several campaigns. I even co-managed the Bush 2000 campaign in San Diego county. With that being said, I will tell you why I, a Republican and a vet, support Mr. Obama. The reason is simple and is the main message: Change! I believe Americans need to feel inspired in this time of uncertainty and Mr. Obama is a symbol of hope and a new direction for America. I know it has been said already, but he truly is my generation's JFK.In addition to my vote, I will also do what I can here to win military votes for Mr. Obama. I believe that Obama has a wonderful opportunity to cut into the traditional Republican voting bloc of military voters. So good luck to Mr. Obama and I look forward to voting for him in the general.
Visit our Veterans for Obama page to join the veterans community and learn more about Barack's plans for veterans.
