Posted on 12/15/2008 1:36:35 PM PST by mnehring
I have made it a recurring theme of comments and front page postings to impress how important speaking and communicating is to leadership, particularly in the political arena. The power and effect of inspirational rhetoric cannot be overstated, most especially in democracies.
On October 5, 1995, the alumni organization, West Point Association of Graduates, awarded their prestigious Sylvanus Thayer Award before the student body, faculty and friends of the military academy. Famous recipients, beginning 50 years ago in 1958, include General Douglas MacArthur, Neil Armstrong, Reverend Theodore Hesburgh, Ronald Reagan and Senator Barry Goldwater. As one of only two women to ever receive this outstanding honor, the honoree that year struggled, near the end of her life, against the severe ravages of multiple sclerosis to give what is one of the most inspiring and patriotic speeches I have ever heard. Three months, one week and five days later, that horrible disease took her life far too soon, just shy of her sixtieth birthday.
The speech in audio is here with a full text included.
It occurred to me as I listened to this speech, the contrast of honor and dignity and love of country could not have been more stark between this great orator and a black woman who said recently only now was she finally proud of her country. Barbara Jordan was always proud to be an American and I, in turn, am very proud to have been born and raised in the same hometown of Houston. I was also struck by the notion she missed her calling in life. Had Barbara Jordan been my commanding officer, I would have fought to the gates of hell with her. Take the time to listen to this speech and I think you will feel the same.
Her biography is here.
My faith in the Constitution is whole, it is complete, it is total...
They don't make Democrats like her any more.
Bump for later.
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