While I thought the DNC Convention was quite good overall (wish I could've been there), I'd like to comment on the extraordinary Militarism and the Missed Opportunities...
First, Militarism. I think this was one of the most militaristic conventions I've seen from either party, with the last night's agenda topping the war charts. If anyone is NOT aware that Kerry is a Vietnam Vet, please speak up. I know exactly why there was so much emphasis on Kerry being a vet and having so much support from generals. Even so, I think it reflects some naivete on the part of the Kerry campaign and Dem Party leadership. Nobody should think for a minute that the Republicans won't attack Kerry for being weak on defense. The facts have NEVER gotten in the way of a Republican attack. So given that reality, I think the militarism was excessive, which leads to my second point...
Second, Missed Opportunities. In all the rah-rah discussion of Kerry's military background and credentials, there was little or no discussion of the details of his record as either a prosecutor or a Senator (20 years???). This was true even in the video that preceded Kerry's entry last night, where we were regaled with scene after scene from his childhood, but apparently he has been in seclusion since returning from Vietnam. The campaign should have made sure to discuss Kerry's achievements as a public servant, to rebut the flip-flop claims from the Bushies. I think they really missed a golden opportunity in front of a national audience, and they won't get another chance.