Couldn't agree with you more . . . it absolutely broke my heart to see Admiral Stockdale be made a laughing stock by popular culture. Not only was the man a war hero, he was a true modern day philosopher; a warrior-academic. He once gave a Forrestal Lecture at USNA, which mids are typically loathe to attend, and got a standing ovation that lasted a full five minutes. Not one mid fell asleep, which was astounding. Then, afterwards, you'd see him shopping around the Mid Store like he was just another alum.
One of the greatest men this country ever produced . . .
They never gave Admiral Stockdale a chance. Never heard much out of Perot either after he dropped out.