ala Dan:
I have a great deal of respect for you and generally agree with your words of wisdom. However, I think you spoke perhaps before you thought on this theme..
I don't know how you can disbelieve John Kerry earned his Silver Star unless you were there to see what happened.
Similarly, I don't think you are qualified to speak on whether Cpl Tillman deserved to be awarded a Silver Star unless you were there.
It grieves me immensely to see people denigrate the war records of others unless they have been there and done that. If you've been through it, then fine, speak up. If not, please show some respect for valorous conduct--regardless of the politics. Bullets have no politics.
I have seen on this forum generally very fine people get downright dirty and badmouth such people as John McCain, Max Clellan, John Kerry and others who have sacrificed freedom, limbs and even lives, all because their politics do not jibe with those of the poster.
Whether you believe it or not, those guys have given something of themselves for their country. Give 'em hell for their political views, if you like, but never denigrate their wartime service to their country UNLESS YOU'VE BEEN THERE AND DONE THAT.