Those Who Know War Are Targeted

The war in Iraq is the biggest campaign issue to the veterans of Post 4809.

"I hate the fact that we are there," said Richard Helm, who spent 13 years in the Navy. "The guys over there are doing an honorable job, but most of the people in Iraq don't seem to care about that or whether they are there."

He said that although Republicans such as Allen and President Bush are responsible for the conduct of the war, he has not been convinced that Webb or the Democrats have a better plan.

"I have heard the Democrats complain a lot about policies, about this, that and the other thing," he said. "But I haven't heard any solutions from them yet. I might be kind of cynical, but the devil you know is better than the devil you don't, unless you reach the point where you say, 'Dump all the incumbents.' But I haven't reached that point yet."

For Nick Pittman, 83, a Navy veteran of World War II, the election Tuesday comes down to one issue: "Somebody who will help us out with veterans affairs."

He said he is undecided on the candidates, but it will have to be someone who cares about people like him.

Webb campaign officials say they believe the Democrat will appeal to veterans because of his early warnings and opposition to the war in Iraq, in contrast to Allen's "stay the course" position. Webb has been endorsed by retired Army Gen. Wesley K. Clark, among others.

The Allen campaign said the senator has worked to increase funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs to care for wounded troops and to restore money for the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. At a veterans event in Manassas on Oct. 18, Allen explained his latest view of the war.

"Although our principles and strategic goals have not changed in Iraq, mistakes have been made and progress has been too slow," he said. "We must adapt our operations and tactics to meet the evolving terrorist threat and the Iraqi people must take control of their destiny. I want our troops home, and I want them to come home in victory -- not defeat."