Speaking in Independence, Mo., today, Obama talks patriotism and those that have questioned his. Here is an excerpt from his speech:

"It is worth considering the meaning of patriotism because the question of who is -- or is not -- a patriot all too often poisons our political debates, in ways that divide us rather than bringing us together. I have come to know this from my own experience on the campaign trail.

"Throughout my life, I have always taken my deep and abiding love for this country as a given. It was how I was raised, it was what propelled me into public service, it is why I am running for president. And yet, at certain times over the last 16 months I have found for the first time my patriotism challenged -- at times as a result of my own carelessness, more often as a result of the desire by some to score political points and raise fears and doubts about who I am and what I stand for.

"So let me say this at the outset of my remarks, I will never question the patriotism of others in this campaign. And I will not stand idly by when I hear others question mine."

Later in the speech, Obama said:

"As Mark Twain, that greatest of American satirists and proud son of Missouri, once wrote, 'Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.'"

With a hat tip to McCain, Obama said:

"For those who have fought under the flag of this nation -- for the young veterans I meet when I visit Walter Reed; for those like John McCain who have endured physical torment in service to our country -- no further proof of such sacrifice is necessary. And let me also add that no one should ever devalue that service, especially for the sake of a political campaign, and that goes for supporters on both sides.

"We must always express our profound gratitude for the service of our men and women in uniform. Period."