Asked specifically about allegations that Kerry fabricated some of his combat record, Franks said, "Yeah, I think it is hyperbole."

"For some reason we've fallen prey to a notion that says there has to be vitriol in order to simply say, I support Senator Kerry, I support George W. Bush to remain president for the next four years."

Asked point-blank if Kerry was qualified to be commander in chief, Franks said, "Absolutely."

The Iraq War chief was adressing allegations by Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, a group of Vietnam veterans who served with Kerry who have chronicled evidence of his misconduct as a Swift Boat commander in the new best-selling book "Unfit for Command."

Gen. Franks said he was proud of being "fiercely independent" in his politics, but he told "This Week" that he's leaning toward supporting President Bush and acknowledged he's in talks with GOP planners for a possible address to the Republican National Convention on Aug. 29.

Editor's note: