God Bless Them All
The Washington Times published a very interesting report today on the extensive behind-the-scenes efforts which have been made by both the President and the Vice President to comfort bereaved military families and wounded soldiers.
There have been countless unreported visits which the White House made without the knowledge of the media.
As Mrs. Bush said of the private meetings, "These are such personal times when people grieve. And we grieve with them. And these are not times when you would want a camera in the room or other people around. They are very emotional, personal times.
"And for all of these families to be in a room with the commander in chief who made the decision to send their loved one in harm's way is, you know, a wrenching time for us and for them. For all of us, the consequences of the choices that a commander in chief makes are clear. It's all about them, and their grief."
President Bush has sent over 4,000 personal letters to families who have lost a loved one serving in the military.
The Times also reports that Vice President Cheney, whom many in the media and politics love to demonize, has spent a great deal of private time with injured troops, including hosting barbecues for soldiers at his home at the Naval Observatory.
The story is accompanied by a wonderful shot of Vice President Cheney practicing casting his fishing line on a lawn while spending time with wounded troops.
I feel that the Bushes and Cheneys conducting these events for over seven years out of the limelight, refusing to use photo ops for positive publicity, says a lot. I have strongly disagreed with the President on some issues -- and, in fact, continue to disagree with some of his recent policy decisions -- but I have always believed he is a good man who has integrity and compassion, and this story further underscores that fact.
Especially at this season of the year, I hope everyone will pause a moment to give thanks and pray for our troops, especially the injured and the families of our fallen heroes.
posted by Laura @ 10:58 PM
4 Comments:
"I feel that the Bushes and Cheneys conducting these events for over seven years out of the limelight, refusing to use photo ops for positive publicity, says a lot."
From friends I had to endure the constant jab that Bush never visits the wounded. I knew it was not true. I said nothing as they would not be persuaded otherwise.
That they do it privately without any self-promotion certainly does say a lot of about their character. I would like to think, however, that all presidents/vice presidents would be so discreet, humble and sensitive. But probably not.
I have strongly disagreed with the President on some issues -- and, in fact, continue to disagree with some of his recent policy decisions -- but I have always believed he is a good man who has integrity and compassion, and this story further underscores that fact."
I feel the exact same way.
President Bush has many faults as we all do...but I agree with you that he is a man of integrity and compassion.
I have a feeling we will come to remember these past 8 years as the "good old days!"
~Jean
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