"I’m sure many of you will also recall from your experiences in war, as I do from mine, that when you’re somewhere on the other side of the world in the service of America you pay attention to the news from back home. It affects morale. And even during this election season, with sharp differences on the wisdom and success of the surge in Iraq, Americans need to speak as one in praise of the men and women who fight our battles.”

Much dependes on "the good judment of the next president,” McCain told the veterans. See his speech here:

"Though victory in Iraq is finally in sight, a great deal still depends on the decisions and good judgment of the next president,” McCain said. "The hard-won gains of our troops hang in the balance. The advantage of a peaceful and democratic ally in the heart of the Middle East could still be squandered by hasty withdrawal and arbitrary timelines.

Read the full context of his speech here. Thanks to the ChicagoTribune.com for their excellent story.