Vietnam has worked well for Kerry in terms of furthering his political ambitions. Why should he stop now? Vietnam and his band of brothers have been used in most of his campaigns. He used the VVAW to gain national prominence, appearing on MTP and 60 minutes, after his early out from the USN and failed Congressional bid. Unfortunately, Kerry has learned the wrong lessons from Vietnam, which make him a poor choice to be CIC. I doubt if he could employ US military power to protect our vital national interests. He seems to think US military force is to be used only for humanitarian causes.
Zumwalt's relationship with Kerry could have been influenced by his [Zumwalt's] son's battle with Agent Orange and eventual death. Kerry was active in Congress in seeking redress for veterans who were affected. This may have mellowed Zumwalt's attitude toward Kerry.
See my post #48. Kerry has plenty of experience of dealing with those who question his war record. We know his playbook. I still think his service records need to be released, but GWB should not be associated in any way with that effort. Bill Weld tried it and lost.