As of last week, 165,000 part-time National Guard and Reserve troops were called up on active duty in support of the war on terrorism, including those providing extra security in the United States. At least 175 Guard and Reserve troops have died in Iraq since the invasion was launched in March 2003.

"We're at war, this is a hard war, and we frankly inside the Army Reserve have been not properly prepared for it," Lt. Gen. James Helmly said, adding that he sees some sign of improvement.

Kerry's speech was part of his effort to offer sharper attacks of the president's leadership as the campaign enters its final six weeks.

Bush had told the group that Kerry has repeatedly changed and waffled on his own position on the Iraq war. The president said Thursday that Kerry's approach has sent "the wrong signals" to America's troops, allies and enemies.

"What's critical is that the president of the United States speak clearly and consistently at this time of great threat in our world and not change positions because of expediency or pressure," Bush had said.

Bush holds a commanding lead over Kerry among veterans and their families. A recent Associated Press-Ipsos poll said the president was the choice of 58 percent and Kerry 38 percent.

Bush, whose National Guard service has been called into question in the campaign, told the veterans he was proud to have served but did not mention the controversy. Neither did Kerry.

A Pew poll released Thursday found that more than 40 percent of Americans say they do not think Bush met his National Guard obligations, a third said he did. But only about half of those who said Bush didn't fulfill his duty said it bothers them.