What Does Patriotism Mean Anymore?

Express an opinion, and the personal attacks follow.  

John Murtha’s (D-PA) purple hearts are being questioned by David Thibault, editor in chief of the Cybercast News Service. Thibault “said the issue of Murtha's medals from 1967 is relevant now ‘because the congressman has really put himself in the forefront of the antiwar movement.’ Thibault said: ‘He has been placed by the Democratic Party and antiwar activists as a spokesman against the war above reproach.’”*

*From a Washington Post on-line article: Web Site Attacks Critic of War

Once again, proof positive that conservatives (like liberals) will criticize an individual for political gain. Neither conservatives nor liberals are able to keep the public debate above the belt anymore. But nothing gets my dander-up quite like the faux-principled indignation that conservatives often spout.

For conservatives, who portend to be all about patriotism and military service, to question the service records of John Kerry (Swift Boat for Veterans) and John Murtha is down right despicable. Especially in the case of Murtha who was, until his recent anti-war comments, highly respected by both Republicans and Democrats alike. This attempt to soil Murtha’s record is based on nothing more than an off-hand comment he made years ago. So why make it an issue now? Because conservatives see Murtha as a threat. This attack on a reputable anti-war advocate is driven by pure and shameful malice.

If we can fire demeaning accusations at veterans when they advocate contradictory opinions, patriotism means nothing more than cheering for those who agree with your point of view.