This is really not a big surprise. The troops want a Commander in Chief who understands the military and national security. Overall they back McCain 68% to 23% according to a Military Times poll.

I understand the concerns of military members if Obama becomes President. I joined the military when Reagan was elected President and got out when I saw how Clinton was treating the military.

When asked which of the candidates would do a better job as president handling military personnel issues, such as pay and benefits, McCain leads Obama 73% to 18%.

When asked which of the candidates would do a better job as president handling Defense Department issues, such as weapons purchases, the size of the armed forces and national security strategy, McCain leads Obama 77% to 15%.

Here’s the chart that breaks down the poll.