I didn't know they awarded Silver Stars so fast. Wade says they pinned it on days after the event. If so, then they were handing them out like candy.
Sanders tries to capitalize on the well-earned respect and reputation associated with Admiral Zumwault and his good name. Surely the fact that Kerry's SS was awarded and presented by the Admiral himself testifies to its legitimacy? Surely to question Kerry's SS is to besmirch the honor of the Admiral himself?
Under normal circumstances, perhaps. But Sanders neglects to point out that, at the time, the Admiral was deeply involved in shepherding and supporting his fledgling PCF concept...river interdiction. It is more than understandable that he was eager to support the morale of his newly tasked crews...and to the career military, one major element in enhancing both morale and esprit de corps were and are military awards and commendations. Was he a bit less circumspect than he should have been in his haste to "support" his troops and, tangentially and somewhat self-servingly, his new mission concept? Perhaps so, but his actions and motivations were understandable and above reproach.
Undaunted by the word of one of the most revered naval commanders of any era, the Swift Boat Veterans for truth, and others without principle, continue to attack Kerry's medal...Among those "without principle", according to Mr. Sanders, is James Zumwault...co-signer (ex officio) of the original Swiftee letter to John Kerry "in memory of Elmo Zumwalt, Sr. and Elmo Zumwalt, Jr, his father and brother."Wade Sanders
James Zumwault knows something about "principles" and needs no tutorial from the likes of Wade Sanders.