The following statement is by Richard DiFederico, Department Commander Connecticut VFW:
“Those who served in Vietnam or offshore or in neighboring countries rightfully earned all the belated thanks and appreciation our nation can muster. Those who served in uniform during the Vietnam era also deserve our gratitude, which makes Mr. Blumenthal's claim to be something he is not so outrageous. It diminishes the service of all who served and sacrificed, most especially those whose names are inscribed on the Vietnam Wall. Mr. Blumenthal was considered one of the best friends a veteran could have in Connecticut. It is a true shame that he let a false claim of Vietnam service change that.”
VFW National Commander Thomas J. Tradewell Sr., endorses this statement. In sum, the fact that this event was held at a VFW location cannot, in any manner, be construed as a formal endorsement of the candidate.
Did you hear Cavuto diminish the importance of what Blumenthal did? He played an excerpt of a speech in which Blumbenthal clearly stated that although he never served in Vietnam, he has empathy for those who did, etc. etc. Neil reminded his audience he didn’t steal, cheat and do what Rangel, Spitzer, and Dodd have done, almost making the listener feel sorry. What gives with FNC lately? Too much giving McCain a forum to campaign and now siding with Blumenthal?