The point is this: What has changed in the 12 years since Kerry made this (IMHO) excellent speech? Why was he all for uniting this country back then and now he's so keen on focusing on and exploiting the differences between the two parties now? His call for unity has morphed into something else all together. Twelve years ago he sounded truly concerned about this country. He sounded very presidential. If he made this same speech today he'd probably have my vote.

But today he's saying things that contradict the major components of his earlier speech. Things that, he hopes, will help get him elected. So what is most important to him now? Damned if I know but it sure sounds like gettin' 'lected..

"We do not need to divide America over who served and how."

"I would like to make a simple and straightforward appeal, an appeal from my heart, as well as from my head. To all those currently pursuing the presidency in both parties, I would plead that they simply look at America. We are a nation crying out for leadership."

"We do not need more division. We certainly do not need something as complex and emotional as Vietnam (Iraq?)  reduced to simple campaign rhetoric. What has been said has been said, Mr. President, but I hope and pray we will put it behind us and go forward in a constructive spirit for the good of our party and the good of our country."

So, Reg, the point is this; Will the real John Kerry please stand up.