It’s easy to be dubious about someone who says
their ultimate mission is to destroy a candidate. It’s even easier
when they are linked to a doctored photo and a probation sentence fo r
attacking a legislative aide. Moreover, even if Kerry did shoot a wounded
man in Vietnam, he likely did it in self-defense, and is only one among
tens of thousands of GIs who participated in the horrific acts that constituted
the war.
Yet it’s
harder to argue with an actual witness of the event, especially one who
went on to endorse Kerry. Tom Belodeau said he was there when he saw Kerry
shoot and kill an injured man. For this, Kerry went on to win the Silver
Star, a coveted medal of honor.
Throughout
the campaign, Senator Kerry has painted his war experience as an invaluable
asset in the race to unseat George W. Bush. He’s touted his status,
welcoming the portrayal of his service in Vietnam as heroic.
Yet this
seems disingenous, even callous, given the circumstances surrounding his
medal. Killing a wounded soldier is no heroic feat. Using it as an election
tactic is even worse. Like President Bush, who showed integrity when he
released his problematic National Guard records, Senator Kerry should
be forthright abou t the circumstances surrounding his Silver Star. Honestly
doesn’t make a man unelectable.
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