Reply #12: Let the Rovians try this tactic [View All]

[Jai4WKC08]

It only reminds people of the contrast of where Bush was during the war. And the family priviledge that got him there.

I can't say how civilians see it, but military types joke that a Purple Heart is an "I f'd up" award. That's not to say we don't appreciate the sacrifice, but we also realize that how badly someone was wounded has nothing to do with heroism and is usually more a function of luck.

My own husband is a DFC recipient from Nam, but never got a Purple Heart. And that's fine with me, believe me.

Purple Hearts are passive--you were there, in the wrong place at the wrong time. A Silver Star (as Kerry and Clark both received) means the awardee actually did something. Something requiring remarkable strength of character. I would hope most people know the difference.