John McCain boasts strong credentials in foreign policy and defense. The recent exchange regarding his statement that U.S. troops might remain in Iraq for 100 years emphasizes his edge.

Leftists claim the comments mean McCain supports a century of combat. Their hyperventilating criticism suggests they either did not read his words or deliberately are distorting them. Let's be charitable and attribute their shortcomings to the ignorance imposed by ideology.

McCain cites the 100-year mark because an extended U.S. military presence in Iraq would identify the Americans and Iraqis as allies. Troops would serve there because the Iraqis welcomed them. A prolonged stay would resemble American deployments in Europe and Asia, which continue more than 60 years after World War II's guns fell silent. The troops affirm American solidarity, as well as American engagement with the world.

Supporters of pulling out of Iraq the day before yesterday give away the game. They want to leave because they consider the war not only a mistake but a failure. In their scenario, a rapid American homecoming would result not from victory but from defeat. McCain's view reflects greater confidence -- and greater clarity.