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2008-05-02 Home Front: WoT

Soldier who smothered grenade to get Medal of Honor

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Posted by tu3031 2008-05-02 13:04|| || Front Page|| [3 views ] Top

#1 While deserving, these four Medal of Honor recipients will never walk among us. They will never meet and inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps.

There are so few living Medal of Honor recipients that for each one, there are over 3 million Americans.

Most Americans will never in their lives meet a Medal of Honor recipient. They will never hear their story of valor. Most will not even know the significance of the Medal of Honor.

This is like depriving children in school the privilege of ever having saluted the flag or saying the pledge of allegiance. It takes from them the personification of honor, the meaning of patriotism. A reason to love their nation. An understanding of why service and sacrifice in the defense of the nation is so precious and essential.

In no way does presenting a citation of honor to a living recipient diminish the contributions of those who gave their lives. In fact, it keeps alive their memory as well.

Posted by Anonymoose 2008-05-02 14:08|| 2008-05-02 14:08|| Front Page Top

#2 I too am disapointed that the services (and Congress) have seen fit to raise the bar so high on "The Medal" that no living soldier can recieve it.

It saddens me - because I know that some amung our current crop of heroes deserves this honor - but won't receive it.

Posted by Leigh 2008-05-02 16:58|| 2008-05-02 16:58|| Front Page Top

#3 But some will get the Silver Star, same as John Kerry.

I guess that makes me bitter.

Posted by Bobby 2008-05-02 17:01|| 2008-05-02 17:01|| Front Page Top

#4 Bobby, the honourable junior senator from Massachusetts threw his medals away, whether in reality or only in show. So he hasn't counted as a Silver Star recipient ever since, even if he does fondle it in private. No matter what he may claim now.

Posted by trailing wife ">trailing wife 2008-05-02 17:14|| 2008-05-02 17:14|| Front Page Top

#5 I've often thought the U.S. Post Office should have a commemorative series of stamps honoring the people who have earned the MOH. Each would have their picture on a such a stamp. I don't know about the practicality of doing this since there a considerable number of MOH winners. It would serve to educate people about our heroes and to remind us that some have performed selfless acts to save others or give all for their comrades.

Posted by JohnQC 2008-05-02 18:47|| 2008-05-02 18:47|| Front Page Top

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