TIME.com: How Kerry Earned His Decorations — May. 10, 2004:
Kerry is one of the Senate’s most decorated veterans — though he has far fewer medals than friend John McCain — and his record is impressive for an officer who spent just 10 months in Vietnam. Each of the medals below came with a matching ribbon.
Time lists each of Senator Kerry’s decorations, explained what each one means, and details how he earned it.
I didn’t realize South Vietnam presented medals to US service personnel: it’s a shame that Texas doesn’t honor the defenders of its skies as handsomely.
I think anyone who seeks to undermine these awards walks a fine line. It’s not like you can lobby or apply for these decorations. You have to be recommended for them and they must be documented: to suggest that they weren’t earned impugns the honor of Kerry’s commanders directly and, indirectly, that of the military.