Open Letter From Oregon Military Families to Senator Kerry Regarding His Stance on The War on Terror

George W. Bush ^ | July 22, 2004

[RWR8189]

Dear Senator Kerry:

Since beginning your campaign for President, you have consistently highlighted your military service as one reason why voters should support your candidacy. You have consistently implied that your military service has prepared you to serve in our country’s highest office. However, we have grave concerns about positions you have taken that affect our men and women in uniform.

You voted in favor of going to war with Iraq. In fact, your speeches in the Senate clearly expressed support for not only military action in Iraq, but also the removal of Saddam Hussein. However, as your campaign for President failed to gain momentum, your views on Operation Iraqi Freedom changed. At one point, you even declared yourself an anti-war candidate.

While your position on the war has changed multiple times, what’s been most troubling is your failure to support our sons and daughters serving in combat. Your vote against the $87 billion to fund our troops was unconscionable. You said it would be “irresponsible” to vote against the $87 billion - then you voted against it.

Now both you and your running mate say you are “proud” of your vote against the very funding that is providing our troops with body armor, equipment, combat pay, and health benefits.

You tout your own military experience, but turn your back on the people who are currently defending our country. Leaders must make principled decisions that require conviction. You appear to make decisions based upon perceived popular opinion.

American troops have nobly put themselves on the frontlines to protect our freedom. They and their families deserve a leader who will stand with them regardless of circumstance. You, sir, owe our troops and their families a clear explanation for your lack of support.

John F. Howard
CDR USN(Ret)

Curtis Cummins
Father of soldier serving in Iraq

[BagCamAddict]

I sure wish I could sign this letter.

[Smartass]

John F. Howard
CDR USN(Ret)

[NordP]

Me Too!

GREAT LETTER!

[potlatch]

[BagCamAddict]

Will anyone/everyone who plans on Freeping Kerry if/when he visits Oregon please ping me? I want to participate.

[Boazo]

Thanks for the ping

[maranatha]

bump

[Valin]

Ping

[Alamo-Girl]

Bump!

[snippy_about_it]

Great letter, thanks for the ping.

[SAMWolf]

Darn I wish they had a way to add names to that letter.

Thanks for the ping Valin.

[Northern Yankee]

Great letter!

Thanks...

[JOE43270]

I'm in with these Families and I would sign this letter if ask even though I live in Ohio. These people in uniform are my younger Brothers and Sisters.