Notice Kerry couldn't take his peer group on the road with him. He had to use people where he was in a position of power over them in Vietnam.
Look at the "airbase photo" where Kerry's standing in the back row with his peer group. How many supported him, how many outspokenly opposed him?
I can't speak for anyone but myself, BUT as an alumni of the 101st ABN phu bai aug 70-aug 71, I can tell you in no uncertains terms how my vote went!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!