Then with people like you it is symbolism over substance?
Being there and being seen to lead is a key component of leadership.
If you object to "symbolism over substance" did you object to Bush going to Ground Zero right after 911???
Do you consider it "symbolism over substance" when a general, say a Patton, stands by the road seeing his troops off to battle?
The moment I saw that silly photo of Bush looking out his Air Force One window at New Orleans I cringed. Living in "flyover country" I know how that feels.