Symbolism is an important part of how any leader communicates. Dubya and his people (like Reagan) seem to understand this very well. Throwing the first pitch at Yankee Stadium just days after 9/11 prompted Billy Crystal (no fan of the president, I'm sure) to say "would you look at the guts on that guy!".
You know, this is a great point. Everyone thinks that Bill Clinton is the eptiome of communicating greatness- I have a friend that teaches a speech class and uses him as the prime example of how to give a good speech. Ok, I'll grant him that he had a good delivery. But can you ever remember anything he ever said? All I can remember is "I did not have..." ok you get the point. But think of all the GREAT images I can remember of Reagan (even though I was in elementary school during his tenure) and Bush--oh my W has SO many great lines and feelings attributed to him. Both of them understood the power of symbolism. We live in a country where, I'd say, 90% of people tear up at a ballgame hearing the national anthem. It's foolish to say that symbols aren't part of the message. And I definitely think that W flying to an aircraft carrier is a wonderful show of support, courage, and trust in the military.
Although I am still terrified LOL!! But won't those be great images of his plane coming in and him getting out be fantastic?? I can't wait!