"One  of the saddest episodes in our history was the degree to which returning vets from Vietnam were shunned, demonized and neglected by some because they served in an unpopular war. Too many of those who opposed the war in Vietnam chose to blame not only the leaders who ordered the mission, but the young men who simply answered their country's call. Four decades later, the sting of that injustice is a wound that has never fully healed, and one that should never be repeated." Barack Obama in Virginia talking to vets.

This kind of pandering, lapel pin squarely in place,  is not necessary to win against John McCain.

Do not place the so-called shunning, demonizing and neglect of Viet Nam vets on the backs of those protesting that tragic war.  Put the blame where it belongs -- at the feet of politicians in Washington, D.C.  They are responsible for the thousands upon thousands of dead and maimed.  They are responsible for the poor care vets received when they returned home.  They are responsible for ignoring the plight of Viet Nam vets, especially those with PTSD.  And they are now responsible for turning their backs on that aging population who are homeless, mentally ill and drug addicted -- soon to be overtaken by vets from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Your statement was shockingly ill informed and misplaced.

This is my first diary entry here and would note this is being cross posted from DK. I hope we might light a fire in the right places.

This is the worst type of mood diary I have ever written, but it comes with a cost. I am still wiping the tears from my eyes because of a truth I saw tonight in a powerful movie which awoke memories of history that now seems to repeat itself again today. The only reason that history is repeating is because we have failed to act as a generation did 30 to 40 years ago and sacrifice a little. We are not the whole of the failure but we are a big part of it, and sadly I admit my involvement as well. We have written with powerful words our disgust, disdain and lack of support for the way this country is being run, but here we all fairly much think alike so it is a safe enviorment, albeit probably well monitored by those shadowy judges who know what is right for us.

I start this diary out with an apology to a long time diarist on the Daily Kos who I got into an exchange with a while back. I thought his wording wrong but I missed it's meaning as many have with the Wright sermon. I start this diary with an apology to One Pissed Off Liberal.

Sen. Obama has made it clear he has no wish for the voices of voters in Florida and Michigan to be heard. OK, as a Michigan resident who voted in our state's primary I'm starting to understand my vote means nothing to Sen. Obama or the DNC.

It's a real eye opener and it is disgusting. And to deny those that have served or are currently in our Armed Services is perhaps an even more grievous affront, lacking any shred of decency.

I never wore the uniform but my late father was active duty for 26 years, career military - he always voted and corresponded with his elected officials in his home state of Pennsylvania. The old man served in two wars but I remember him sending his ballot in - even when we were stationed overseas.

It's a big one this time, a really big one.  It isn't about electing the right person to office, no matter how high the office. It isn't about changing Congress, no matter how poorly it functions.  It's not even about ending the war in Iraq, which now grinds on toward its inevitable bloody end game, sooner than it might otherwise have ended without us.  This challenge it's about stopping a war from ever starting; the war with Iran that without our coordinated and concerted efforts may well begin within months.  

I sent the following email out today and wanted to make sure you all had an opportunity to see it.  IAVA PAC is a great organization with a great mission.  I hope you'll recommend this post so others can see it.

Since I left the Senate race in Ohio I have been overwhelmed by the phone calls, e-mails, and letters of support. On behalf of myself and my entire campaign, I want to thank all of you who have passed on your thoughts and encouragement.

http://www.iavapac.org

Though I am no longer a candidate for elected office, I intend to continue in the fight I began when I returned from serving with my fellow Marines in Iraq; the fight to bring our troops home as quickly and safely as possible.

Read more after the jump...