The
discussion of Kerry's military records have made some, especially on the right,
say that we need to "get over" Vietnam and move on.
The reality is that Vietnam had profound effects on both American foreign and domestic policy and American political culture. All of these impacts were negative. Vietnam was directly connected to the fall of the Civil Rights Movement. Had we not been involved in Vietnam, we could have addressed the economic inequalities relating to segregation and really possibly create a "Beloved Community." Because we tried to (under and over )fund both (over)guns and (under)butter, we fell into economic chaos and failed to live up to vision of people like Dr. Martin King, John L. Lewis, and Fannie Lou Hamer.
Vietnam had incredible negative effects on American political participation and culture. People no longer trust their government because of the way in which we fought Vietnam. Our veterans feel alienated from the rest of society, especially their political leaders.
We need to have a conversation about Vietnam and the 60s in general. I truely hope Kerry picks John L. Lewis as his VP. This would help force a national discussion, and hopefully help heal some of the wounds that fester in the American body politic.