In a time when Democrats in congress are demanding a date set for the withdrawal for troops form Iraq, presidential candidate John McCain continues to stand his ground. Firm in his decision, he states, “We will not allow the United States of America to lose this war.”

Democrats are focusing on passing legislation that would set a concrete date for the removal of troops of Iraq. John McCain vehemently disagrees with this move and believes that the removal of troops is more than losing the war; it would mean genocide. In fact, John McCain is so resolved in his position against withdrawing our troops that he has expressed that he will not support a withdrawal even if it means forfeiting his presidential campaign.

With the presidential campaign at the forefront of politics right now, it is interesting that he would take such a firm resolute stance regarding the war. With so many opposed to the war, it is interesting to see how this will affect his run. One thing is certain however; John McCain made some clearly defined statements regarding his position on the war and our troops and has made it visible to Americans where he stands.

It may be due to this Republican Senator’s background that he takes such a firm stance. Senator McCain is a military man, he know war, has been in war, and has survived war. Married, he is the father of seven children and was born in the Panama Canal Zone. He served in Vietnam and is a decorated Veteran, having received the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Purple Heart. He is also a former prisoner of war.

One of his sons is enrolled in the U.S. Naval Academy and his son; James enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2006. One thing is certain; he must believe in the war strongly enough to see his son enlist.

It would seem that his former experience with war and being a POW would greatly affect and shape his course of action regarding Iraq, and it has. He is solid when it comes to stating that we need to finish the course in Iraq, support our troops by not pulling them out early, and making sure that Al Qaeda does not gain the upper hand.

Now this post isn’t out to point to a presidential candidate one way or another, it is simply to bring to light the background behind Senator John McCain, and to take a look at why he is so resolute with his decision to keep our troops in Iraq and finish the course. What do you think? Do you think that as a former POW he should want a withdrawal and to end things as quickly and swiftly, saving others from the agony that he he experienced first hand? Or do you think that as a military professional America is safe trusting his judgment and following his recommendations? Do you think that his experience sheds light on his presidential candidacy?

What do you think?