The upcoming presidential race is shining a spotlight on past service in the armed forces, causing Americans to consider the military histories of Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass., and President Bush.
Republicans and Democrats alike are beginning to examine the military records of both candidates, weighing the importance in wartime of a leader’s past service.
Kerry released his military records April 21, which contained information from the candidate’s former Vietnam commanders stating that he had excellent evaluations during his time of service.
These records have quieted the criticisms of Republicans who had been asking for Kerry’s military evaluations, an issue that has received much media attention in the past week.
Kerry’s commanders praised his charismatic attitude as well as his gallant efforts and exceptional behavior during combat. Kerry received a Bronze Star, a Silver Star and a Purple Heart for a minor injury from his service in the Vietnam War.
Democrats have expressed concern about Bush’s military record, alleging Bush did not fully carry out his duties during his service in the National Guard. However, claims that Bush went AWOL are not confirmed in the Guard records Bush released after receiving these allegations.
Mike Pfhol, chair of the College Democrats of Wisconsin, sees Kerry’s past military service as a factor that could contribute to success in the upcoming presidential race.
“Kerry’s enlisting in the military, contrasted with Bush’s AWOL National Guard record, will affirm Kerry’s status as a strong Democratic candidate,” Pfhol said.
Pfhol said that because Kerry is a well-respected international figure, it will be all the more important that America use Kerry to help rebuild bridges that Bush has burned with his, in Kerry’s words, “inept foreign policy.”
“[Kerry’s] involvement in the Foreign Relations Committee will help to diffuse post-Sept. 11 fears,” Pfhol said.
However, some Republicans view criticism of Bush’s military service record as unwarranted and questions surrounding his time in the National Guard as irrelevant.
Jessi Schober, vice-chair of Students for Bush, said, “President Bush’s military involvement is a past issue.”
“The focus should not be about when or how well the candidates served in the military, but rather about how the candidates treat those who are currently serving and those who have served in the past,” Schober said.
She added that in a recent interview on “Good Morning America,” Kerry defended himself when criticized on policy issues by attacking Bush’s past military record.
“Mr. Kerry has avoided discussing pertinent policy issues by using this tactic,” she said. “These issues are in the past.”
