Who else saw the commercial on CNN for Boeing?

Yesterday, during the CNN coverage of the presidential candidate's speaches, I noticed a commercial for Boeing which reminded us of their different military aircraft which are being used in the Middle East It was a "How Boeing upports the troops".

Anybody else think it odd that a military contractor is advertizing on TV? When is the last time you bought anything from Boeing?

The 2004 presidential election perhaps.

Why does a military contractor advertise during the presidential campaign? What are they selling?

uinuout2008-02-25T05:59:28Z

Boeing is in all likelihood advertising for 2 reasons:
1: To prop up a sagging stock.
2. They are currently in a battle to the death with Air Bus to get the contract to replace the military's fleet of KC-31 air tankers with a new generation of refuelling tankers! It is currently not looking good for Boeing's chances to win.

mustagme2008-02-25T05:55:58Z

They are selling themselves. By showing the nation that they are in support of the troops, they heighten awareness for their company. For example, if you need a job and see a Boeing commercial, you may just apply there.

Terry2008-02-25T05:55:31Z

Not odd at all, and yes I've seen Boeing ads before, as well as military forces ads.
Same marketing strategy as selling feminine products during soap operas and beer during football games.

Arthur2008-02-25T06:01:25Z

They advertise on programs like that because people with influence on military purchasing watch programs like that.

You see lots of commercials like that on the Sunday morning chat shows on the various networks.

Anonymous2008-02-25T05:57:19Z

They're selling the military.