It is easy to look backwards, using as a frame of reference your personal biases on the issue instead of the experience of having been there. Comments on both sides of this issue from that type of perspective have very little validity in the debate on the character of the man. They may be valid in the orbit of theoretical or philosophical debate, but not in the broader debate of the times. My feelings on the conflict that was mine have been voiced elsewhere and have gotten more attention than they deserved. But let me say this about this act. It is horrific to ponder................and it happened more often than admitted. Not only that, but it happened in more than just the Vietname conflict. Young men, who yesterday were playing in fields and imagining the great things that they would do one day, are thrown into the maelstrom of combat, filled with a soup of patriotic upbringing, boot camp indoctrination, love of family and friends, fear, terror, revulsion..........and they react under the most horrific conditions one can imagine. Survival is paramount............and they react. Your own brothers did things that if you knew, you would be shocked. They did things that if you knew, you would be filled with pride. And then they came home, forever changed, carrying weights and burdens that none should be forced to carry. And there is no shedding the load. Then one must either walk the path, or begin the slow rot process of dying. Former Senator Kerry was clearly involved in an action that he must now carry throughout his existence. But to get the measure of the man, one must look at his entire life. One cannot isolate on this horrific time. It is but one page in a book. Books are for learning. This is an honorable man who paid a terrible price for his valor. He has since set about the business of trying to live a life that has merit. Perfect? Not by a long shot. I have many disagreements with his policies and actions. Respect him? You betcherfectinarse I do. I know of his valor and heart. Nam is now a book for learning..........the wise will read it. If you can find criminals........prosecute them. But leave the warriors alone. They have and continue to suffer enough.

Mick