Brother in Arms - Max Cleland

[sandnsea]

The primaries are 3 years past and I still see the quizzical remarks and accusatory attacks on John Kerry’s campaign in Iowa. For those who still don’t understand the win, it’s as simple as reading Max Cleland’s statement in support of John today. You can’t fake that kind of loyalty. You can’t fake the loyalty of a man who injures his only remaining hand, yet puts off treatment to help a friend. If you haven’t heard the story, you should first ask yourself why not, and after you’ve googled it up, ask yourself if you have an ounce of the courage and dedication of men like Max Cleland. That’s who won Iowa. Vets and firefighters and those of us who watched them and learned from them and were inspired by them; and couldn’t possibly stop when those who had already given so much were willing to give even their last hand to get a veteran’s veteran in the White House.

So when Max has something to say, I listen. When he says Senator Kerry’s Iraq strategy is “the best of his head and heart”, I believe him. When he says “This is too important for our country — we can’t sit here silently and let history repeat itself”, I know it is time to put aside political differences and focus on ending this war. Once again, those who have given so much continue to lead with such dignity and courage, that it is impossible not to follow. I’m proud to associate myself with these words of Max Cleland’s, and hope, in whatever small way, that I can encourage others to do the same.

“Say what you will, but my friend John Kerry today stood up and spoke out about what he believes has gone wrong in Iraq and what has to happen – how he believes we can get tough with the Iraqis, get our brave troops home, and give the Iraqi people a shot at their own democracy.”

Full Statement:
http://www.johnkerry.com/pressroom/news/news_2006_0405c.html

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

1. Kerry was on every progressive talk radio program I listened to,

and brought forth a clear message about the Dem's plans for real security. This is the sort of media blitz that needs to be continued.

[Left Below]

2. I am from Georgia and the hatred I have for the GOP

"Swift-boating" of Cleland will never die.

These assholes like Saxby Chambliss deprived the US of a good Senator.


May they rot in the swamp.

[Rebellious Republican]

5. They may have deprived us of a good Senator, however....

They have not and can not deprive us of an exemplary Democrat that continues to serve as a role model for others. They can not change the fact that the Honorable Max Cleland will continue to work diligently to promote true democratic and american values behind the scenes. You can bet that there will always be a place of honor and prestige reserved for him within the party. By the way, I am in Florida, I feel your pain about the GOP, we have been under siege for a very long time down here as well.

[DanCa]

3. Max Cleland is my role model

I just want to say that I am a disabled person and that my personal hero is Max Cleland. I draw so much information from him words can't describe the impact that he's made on my life. To this day I swear eternal hostility on anyone who sullies Mr. Cleland's good name.

[Stinky The Clown]

4. Max Cleland has always been a hero of mine

There have been more occasions than one when his words or actions have brought this crusty old man (who can also be the world's biggest sap) to tears.

I just plain love the guy.

[Dudley_DUright]

6. Max is a class act and more of an authentic person than Saxby Shameless

could ever hope to be. Salon has been excepting Max's book titled "Patriots Act: Voices of Dissent and the Risk of Speaking Out". Here is the second installment (well worth the click thru ad).

http://www.salon.com/books/feature/2006/04/03/cleland/

[karynnj]

7. Other than on the Convention coverage I had never seen Cleland

before watching the on-line footage from the recent PTSD event at the Kennedy Center in Boston. He is unbelievably impressive and inspiring. His courage and his ability to go on is just amazing.

I loved when he was spoke of returning home - no job, no legs, no girl friend - so he thought what should he do, (pause) run for the state Senate.

The link to see that event is:
http://ksgaccman.harvard.edu/iop/events_forum_video.asp?ID=2973

[Dudley_DUright]

9. I was fortunate enough to meet him in person

He is an alumnus of the University where I teach. He truly is an impressive individual.

[karynnj]

13. His accomplishments are awesome

and his sense of humor fantastic. I wonder where Kerry would have put him (if he wanted) in his administration.

[sandnsea]

10. Oh gosh, he was all over

I swear he was everywhere during the primaries. I remember a really touching story, when JK announced his campaign, where Max gave him his family bible to keep for guidance. I can't find the story where he hurt himself, but it was the week-end before the Iowa caucus and Max had fallen in the ice. Turned out his hand was broken, but he wouldn't stop, he just kept working for JK. Those vets were just incredible, all of them. I just can't say enough about them, and the firefighters too. They've got a strength that you just can't put into words.

[karynnj]

12. The injury story really is incredible

I read the Bible story in Tour of Duty. There really is an intense bond between them. (I liked that as they went off stage at the Harvard thing, Cleland's mike was left on and you heard them have a tiny conversation. The true affection really showed.

[Sensitivity]

8. This is what made difference for Kerry: heart and soul the real deal

[klook]

11. Max is the greatest.

I'll follow you, buddy. Just lead the way.