Columnist Steve Chapman seems to think that only Vietnam-era veterans or avoiders are interested in Sen. John Kerry’s and President Bush’s respective military records (“The Vietnam War and Kerry: Are we done yet?” Commentary, Aug. 22). I disagree. The veterans who are attempting to besmirch Kerry’s combat record only serve to remind us that Bush “found a comfy spot in the Texas Air National Guard.” This, though long ago, reflects on the two men’s characters and ability to lead in troubled times. Bush has not provided a satisfactory response to the question of his whereabouts during his last two years of National Guard service. The answer is relevant to voters’ interest in national security, especially when compared to Kerry’s record of combat service in Vietnam.
Yes, there are many other aspects of Kerry’s and Bush’s histories that need to be assessed by voters during this campaign. But Vietnam is not irrelevant simply because it occurred a long time ago. It arguably was the crucible in which their characters were formed: When faced with a tough and potentially fatal decision, what did each man choose? We voters are facing a similar decision: In perilous times, which of these men do we want to lead us?
