Rick,
Thanks! No problem on the name!
I read his fitreps before I posted. I was suprised that the Kerry folks released them. They are actually not very good. As one who has "firewall 9's" on all of my evals (12 years in the AF) and having written numerous appraisals I can tell you that these are average at best. I think he did his minimal duty in service and you can't knock him for that. At least I do not. It is not his service or lack of service that I am concerned with. It is the fact that he claims to be (and claims to believe) something his record doesn't bear out. He is not "pro military" and his history and voting record in congress show that his is not. I respect him for the fact that he spent 4 months in vietnam and actually was in a firefight and killed someone defending himself and his men. However, I don't respect the fact that he accused those same men (and all american fighting the wars) of attrocities when he returned and then also broke US law by meeting with Vietnamese communists is paris on at least two occasions.
I would have much more respect if Kerry espoused his views openly and honestly (even if they were views I don't share). Not everyone agreed with the war and many openly opposed the war through demonstrations and other legal means. I respect those that state their beliefs and stick by them. I do not respect those that change their beliefs to please those they are trying to win over or impress. For instance, you Rick have stated many opinions that I don't agree with but have done so in ways I respect. I doubt you would change your beliefs to get votes or win approval.
BTW, in case you didn't see this on the site; it is an analysis of Kerry's fitreps.
http://www.swiftvets.com/staticpages/index.php?page=Fitreps
I would not take this for granted and if you know any former Navy folks they will tell you that the comments on how ratings are conducted, and how even praise can send a negative message are correct. Evals are comparative in that it is not what it is said but how you compare with your peer group that is key. Also, it is how things are said.
Cheers
