Firing Missives Over Vietnam

The Washington Post ^ | Thursday, August 26, 2004 | Dana Milbank

[kristinn]

The old soldiers came to reenact the Vietnam War here Wednesday on the plains of central Texas.

Their commanding generals: John F. Kerry and President Bush.

Their mission: An exchange of letters.

The result: Pure farce.

SNIP

With about 30 journalists watching, the two veterans circled each other in the 95-degree heat at a checkpoint outside the ranch, holding their letters as if they were hand grenades.

SNIP

A few minutes later, the two men arrived at the nearby public school, where the cameras were waiting. "We're having to go through Vietnam again," Cleland lamented, though he seemed to be enjoying the combat. "Stop this insanity!"

SNIP

[kristinn]

One of the few Dana Milbank stories I like. The grenade comment is a bit Basil Fawltyish (Don't mention the war!)

[Slump Tester]

"...holding their letters as if they were hand grenades."

What, did Cleland drop his?

[keithtoo]

I'll bet 95% of Americans dont know that Cleland lost his limbs reaching for an American grenade and NOT in combat. I'm a news junkie and I sure didnt know until Anne Coulter (peace be upon her) told me. And I remember Cleland from way back in the Carter years.

This is just one more example of the MSM's half-truths and slants.

[NYCVirago]

One of the few Dana Milbank stories I like.

I did a doubletake when I saw that he had authored it!

[kristinn]

This was a foolish political stunt. Kerry and Cleland made complete asses out of themselves today. Milbank enjoyed the farce.

[RasterMaster]

I guess they forgot about those who came from the generation after [who represent the fallen soldiers who can't speak for themselves]. The media on the hate-Bush bandwagon should suffer what is long overdue and never be allowed to work again...they should BEG for the crumbs normally fed to pigeons.