A candidate who swears his allegiance

Military service is not for everyone - it takes courage, commitment, and loyalty to the United States. Some people would say that the U.S. military is a career choice, I say that it is a way of life.

It's not for everyone; in fact it's not for most. It takes great honor and courage to join. Some of us joined in a time of peace, others joined in a time of war or conflict. Some of us joined the Navy, others the Marines, Army, Air force, and Coast Guard. In a lot of ways all so different, in other ways not so far apart. In the time of need it took certain Americans to say it's my turn to give back, it's my turn to take the torch and do my duty. It's sad but very few Americans take the challenge.

My vote will go to the candidate who swears his allegiance to one country - ours. That candidate is Mark Kirk. The only uniform Kirk has worn is a one of a U.S. Navy officer. As a Marine veteran and an informed voter, I respect Mark Kirk's 21-year military career and my vote will reflect that in November.

Steve Michaels

Naperville