In the upcoming weeks, voters will see many Vietnam veterans vehemently opposing John Kerry. These men, many of whom fought and saw friends maimed and killed on the battlefield. These men, many of whom spent months in military and VA hospitals recovering from wounds. These men, many of whom saw the pain on the faces of mothers and fathers as they buried their child. Why do these veterans have such disdain and contempt for this decorated war hero?

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, many veterans returned home and witnessed violent anti-war protests. Imagine coming home and seeing protesters carrying North Vietnamese flags and chanting, “Ho, Ho, Ho Chi Minh, NLF’s going to win,” while many of our comrades were still in harm’s way.

Mr. Kerry, upon returning home, joined the anti-war movement, protesting against the policies and the politicians responsible for the war. He earned that right.

But then Mr. Kerry stepped over the line. Going before a congressional committee, he branded Vietnam veterans “war criminals,” accusing them of atrocious acts including rape and murder. These inflammatory accusations helped foster an atmosphere where returning veterans were met with disdain and hatred. Returning veterans not only had to deal with emotions brought on by the horrors of war, but the hatred of former friends who condemned them for serving their country.

Now Mr. Kerry is trying to ride his war record to the presidency. He may find this road hazardous. We will never forgive nor forget his actions.

Robert E. Macdonald, Lewiston

Copy the Story Link