In Commitment 2008 report Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama continue to spar over issues of military service and patriotism. Now, their foreign policy records are coming into play as both candidates prepare to embark on trips abroad.

Obama will travel overseas later this summer while McCain heads south of the border Tuesday.

McCain's new straight talk express will jet down to Colombia Tuesday followed by a trip to Mexico. The two-day excursion is designed to talk up issues like trade and shore up more support among Hispanic voters.

"I represent Arizona where Spanish was spoken before English was," McCain said.

McCain has racked up the frequent flier miles during his campaign making stops this spring from the U.K. to Iraq.

"Thank you. We'll come back if I win," McCain said.

As Republicans count the days, Obama will follow suit this summer with a congressional visit to Iraq and to Afghanistan in addition to travel in the Middle East and Europe.

"McCain, I think, has used his trips to Iraq to considerable effect. I'm not sure what any more foreign travel especially to Colombia and Mexico will help him very much, but a foreign policy trip for Barack Obama is essential," political analyst David Gergen said.

The trips come as both candidates try to build their image -- Obama on patriotism and McCain on his war record.

But in an election where pocket book issues are driving their platforms -- why now?

"Most American voters of course are concerned about the economy. They're also concerned about national security and I think that both candidates understand they've got to appear extremely competent," political analyst Marc Sandalow said.

McCain returns on Thursday. So far, there is no schedule set for Obama's trip though he's expected to travel before this summer's Democratic convention.

Obama called Bill Clinton Wednesday and they talked for 20 minutes. Obama's campaign described it as a terrific conversation.

Clinton's spokesman said the former president renewed his offer to assist Obama and is looking forward to campaigning "for and with" him in the coming months.

Gen. Wesley Clark's criticisms of McCain's military record seemed to be generating more controversy. Clark issued a statement saying he stands by his comments. But Obama distanced himself from it saying he rejects them. McCain said it's unnecessary and distracts from the issues.

Taking a look at where the candidates are today - McCain speaks at the National Sheriff's Association conference in Indianapolis before heading to Colombia.

Obama visits a community ministry in Zanesville, Ohio. He's expected to unveil his plan to expand President George W. Bush's faith-based initiative.