ORLANDO -- Republican presidential candidate John McCain addressed the Veterans of Foreign Wars convention Monday.
McCain spoke about the bravery of the men and women fighting today, and those that fought in years past.
"They are the best among us, as you were before them, and I know you will join me in applauding the courage and skill that will see America through to victory," McCain said.
The Arizona senator arrived at Orlando International Airport Sunday night, then headed straight to the Orange County Office of Emergency Preparedness, where he was briefed on the status of Tropical Storm Fay and the readiness of the county to respond at a moment's notice.
Speaking to a pool of reporters, the Arizona senator was optimistic that local and federal officials will work together if the storm strikes.
"The good news is, obviously, no state is better prepared or organized to deal with whatever comes this way than the state of Florida," McCain said.
McCain has long criticized the Federal Emergency Management Agency's reaction to Hurricane Katrina, which inundated New Orleans and much of the Gulf Coast. He blamed poor leadership in the storm's aftermath.
So far, there is no FEMA involvement, officials said.
Gov. Charlie Crist had a press conference with the state EOC Monday morning.
Obama Cancels Tampa Veterans Event
Tropical Storm Fay forced Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama to cancel a veterans event in Tampa Monday.
Obama is still scheduled to speak Tuesday at the VFW convention in Orlando.
President George W. Bush is also set to speak at the convention Wednesday.
There has been no word on any change of plans.
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