I am a veteran and Barack Obama supporter who has had letters previously published in this newspaper that were critical of John McCain. One pointed out his abysmal voting record regarding veterans' issues, and another expressed my disappointment in the way he conducts his campaign.

I should point out that I was for Obama before I was against McCain. Here's why: When it comes to military affairs and veterans' issues, Obama gets it.

He understands the toll that repeated deployments take on our troops and their families. He sees the strain that protracted combat operations put on our all-volunteer force. He realizes occupation without end is fiscally unsustainable and morally irresponsible.

He echoes the concerns of top military leadership that the Army is reaching its breaking point. And, most importantly, he vows as commander-in-chief to use military force only as a last resort and not without a coherent exit strategy.

The only thing members of our armed forces ask of their country and its leaders is that, if called upon to fight, their sacrifices would not be in vain.

Obama, through his words, Senate voting record and choice of advisers has demonstrated that he possesses the requisite wisdom, intellect and temperament for dealing with military issues.

Those of us who have served in the military have experienced the pleasure of serving under wise and competent leadership. And, conversely, we have known the misery of enduring leadership that couldn't find the latrine with a compass and a map.

During my career, I served under presidents Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton. If I were on active duty today, I would consider it an honor to serve under President Obama for one very important reason -- I trust him.

Kevin Scotti

Aberdeen