The ‘medic’ and the major.
Posted by Big John on March 23, 2007
We have heard a lot lately about American pilots in Iraq and how they have behaved in ’the heat of battle’ which has not been to the credit of the US military: so it was nice to see one turn up at Buckingham Palace this week to have ‘er Maj’ pin the Distinguished Flying Cross on his chest.
US Marine Major William Chesarek is the first American flyer to receive this bravery award since World War II and took part in the same action in which a teenage army ‘medic’, Private Michelle Norris, became the first woman to be awarded the Military Cross for bravery under fire.
Normally I have a good old rant about investitures and the way ‘gongs’ are handed out like sweets (candies) to bloody second rate actors, ancient pop stars and so called sporting ‘heroes’, but for once they have gone to people who deserve them and can truly be called ‘heroes’.
Medals are often won for acts of heroism which involve killing other human beings, so it is always pleasing to see awards going to people who have risked their own lives to save the life of another.
In the horror that is the Iraq fiasco many decorations have been pinned on many chests and many have been presented to the families of those who have died; so whilst I congratulate the young ‘medic’ and the major, I have to hope that in the near future acts of courage such as theirs …
… will become a thing of the past.
Jackshian said
Amen to that John.
Ginnie said
You couldn’t have said it better, John. I’ve been gone for a few days but now that I’ve caught up I want you to know that I really enjoyed the two posts before this too. Thanks.
Oscarandre said
Good comment, John – I have my Uncle’s medals (he died in Bougainville in 1944) but I’d rather have my Uncle.
Longrider said
Quite.
Libertine said
I agree
Betty said
Good post, John.
jayward said
Amen. to that JOHN!
JWL
Terri said
Add me to the list of those that agree with what you said.
I have to say, I had a feeling while in Paris that I’d pick up on a lot of dissent toward Bush…but I was astounded that EVEN clerks had to tell me their feelings (when they knew I was American) as I was making purchases in a store. And I wasted NO time letting them know “I” did not vote for Bush, nor do I agree with this war.