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Cincinnati, Aug. 18, 2004--Democratic presidential candidate Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry (read speech) asserted that we are a country divided by the Iraq War at today's business session. In a reference to the Vietnam War, Kerry said, "Never again in America should the warrior ever be confused with the war." To those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, he pledged "to stand with you families as you stand for ours. Like veterans of all wars past, when they come home, they deserve the respect and welcome of a grateful nation. After all, the first definition of patriotism is to keep faith with those who have worn the uniform."
Kerry also called for America to provide its returning veterans the tools to build strong families and strong communities. "This means transitional assistance to help all those returning from war, struggling to readjust to civilian life, and coping with the scars of battle, those both seen and unseen," he said. "This is about keeping a sacred promise."
Moreover, Kerry vowed to "fight a smarter, more effective war on terror," saying that as president, he would not hesitate to use force. "Any attack will be met with a swift and certain response," he said.
Furthermore, he exclaimed, "I know what we have to do in Iraq." Furthermore, he exclaimed, "I know what we have to do in Iraq." He stressed the need to involve Arab and NATO troops in Iraq because other countries have "a stake in not having a failed Iraq." In addition, the VFW life member said more and better training of Iraqi police and security forces is needed to hold "credible" elections in 2005.
The Navy Vietnam War vet explained that he wants to "reshape and rebuild" the American military and promised never to send GIs into battle without a plan for peace. Kerry would add 40,000 new troops, but "not in Iraq," and double the Army's special forces. He noted that 90% of the Army's active-duty combat divisions are in Iraq, have been there or are on their way.
The Democratic Party contender attacked President Bush's plan to withdraw 70,000 troops from Europe and Asia over the next 10 years. "Nobody wants to bring troops home more than those of us who have fought in foreign wars," he said. "But it needs to be done at the right time and in a sensible way. This is not that time or that way."
Kerry further criticized the President for telling VFW attendees on Monday that "we're getting the job done" in regard to veterans benefits and services. Kerry scored the Administration's handling of the VA medical system, homeless veterans, VA claims processing, waiting time for VA health care appointments, co-payments, enrollments fees, VA nursing-home care and concurrent receipt.
He promised to fight for mandatory funding for VA, and drew applause on several occasions when he claimed he would provide full concurrent receipt. "I don't believe you subtract what you suffered from what you earned," he said. "I won't stop fighting until our veterans get the full disability payments they deserve." But no specific budgetary solutions were offered for resolving this and other issues.
Kerry said he would establish a "Military Family Bill of Rights," which would include competitive pay, good housing, decent health care and quality education for their children. For veterans to-be, Kerry pledged, "We're going to see to it that everyone who fought for this country has a good job when they come back to this country."
On the issue of homeland protection, Kerry called for improved security at nuclear and chemical plants, better inspection of container ships entering U.S. ports and more sharing of intelligence. "I have been calling for the creation of national director of intelligence with the authority to oversee all of our intelligence agencies," he said.
Also speaking today was Stephen Koper, president of the National Guard Association, who encouraged VFW Posts to help provide military family assistance. American Legion National Commander John A. Brieden III spoke, too. He said, "Our appearance at this convention is a big step. If we work together, we will be more effective." Incoming Commander-in-Chief John Furgess will make a reciprocal visit to the American Legion's national convention in Nashville later this month.
VFW Awards
Americanism: FedEx Freight, for shipping VFW-provided necessities to troops in Afghanistan and Iraq, free of charge.
Aviation and Space: National Aeronautics and Space Administration for the ongoing Mars Exploration Rover Mission.
Emergency Medical Technician: Capt. Angela Noelle, Williamson County (Texas) Emergency Medical Services, for a lifetime of service to the community.
Firefighter: Roger Bortnem, Aberdeen (S.D.) fire Department, for training first responders in handling hazardous materials.
Law Enforcement: Deputy Sheriff Theresa Adams-Hydar, San Diego County (Calif.) Sheriff's Department, for her volunteer involvement in community service organization.
Youth Hero of the Year: Michael Graham, Camas Prairie, Mont., for saving a drowning child in a 9-fout-deep, 30-foot-wide ditch filled with frigid water.
Eagle Scout of the Year: Benjamin J. U. Banwart, Shakopee, Minn., for a proven record of community service, leadership abilities and concern for the environment.
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