If the Defense Department sends Charleston's 315th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron to the Middle East, Gov. Mark Sanford is a lock to be its most prominent airman - and we're not just talking South Carolina. Our governor, a first lieutenant, might gain national recognition from the experience. We're sure to see him favorably reviewed on Fox News and CNN because telegenic politicians who go off to war are hard for viewers to resist.

We respect those feelings, but continue to marvel at their illogic. A military background, while commendable, is not a good a predictor of political ability - or of success in winning elections. Sanford, for instance, didn't need them to get elected to the U.S. House and re-elected twice.

He deserves credit for promising to go if called. But if his first term as governor goes well, it won't be because he served in the Air Force Reserve. It will be because he is a capable politician in spite of his military experience.