As the secular leader of a secular nation, President Obama has no "sacred" duties. War and its attendant crimes are not holy sacraments. This headline is deeply offensive.
1
"Eliot A. Cohen, an official in the George W. Bush administration said that Mr. Obama’s trips to Walter Reed may have been the reason, and that future presidents should avoid such visits. . . A president has to be psychologically prepared to send people into harm’s way and to get a good night’s sleep,”
That is precisely why every president needs to visit the men and women in recovery at the military hospitals. The cost of war always falls on our young people. The leaders of the U.S. government need to think twice and then twice more before we engage in any other war. War is very rarely a solution, in the long run.
I wrote President Obama a detailed letter to thank him for all he has done for the country; for his forthrightness and compassion, amongst other things. I did not expect a reply. Not only was it a reply but he enumerated several of my points back to me; it was no form letter.
One of the points I made was that those criticizing him have no idea of all the things he does without publicity, such as these visits. I think Trump, in that one meeting with him, is beginning to realize the enormity of the position and all the horrible secrets the President must hold close to the vest or the country would implode with the knowledge.
No, he has not been a perfect president, but he has been a good one and a good man.
That is precisely why every president needs to visit the men and women in recovery at the military hospitals. The cost of war always falls on our young people. The leaders of the U.S. government need to think twice and then twice more before we engage in any other war. War is very rarely a solution, in the long run.
I wrote President Obama a detailed letter to thank him for all he has done for the country; for his forthrightness and compassion, amongst other things. I did not expect a reply. Not only was it a reply but he enumerated several of my points back to me; it was no form letter.
One of the points I made was that those criticizing him have no idea of all the things he does without publicity, such as these visits. I think Trump, in that one meeting with him, is beginning to realize the enormity of the position and all the horrible secrets the President must hold close to the vest or the country would implode with the knowledge.
No, he has not been a perfect president, but he has been a good one and a good man.
25
I am missing President Obama so. The shock of who will taking his place makes me even sadder. I hope all those who hate this president with such passion eventually see all the good he tried so hard to accomplish in spite of a constant effort by Republicans to obstruct him. It won't be long before they will see the difference between him and the odious creature they chose instead of Hillary. They will pay for their ignorance, big league.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
12
The visits mean a lot to the veterans: that is good enough for me!
These quotes touched me: "It was the first of several visits the president paid Major Haynes, an Army officer who was told he would never walk, feel below his waist or have children again after his spine was hit by a Taliban bullet in Afghanistan. The visits, Major Haynes said, “were truly inspiring to me” and gave him hope for the life ahead of him."
“I can’t even put into words how impressed I was,” said Lt. Cmdr. John Terry, known as Jae, an amputee whose photo of himself doing lunges with Mr. Obama is among his most treasured possessions. “I will remember that day until I die.”
But even some of the president’s critics say his presence ennobled their injuries and made them feel part of a larger plan.
As he buckled his two stumps into prosthetic legs at the hospital one day recently, Edward Klein, known as Flip, a retired Army major, acknowledged, “I wasn’t a big fan of his politically.”
But he added, “Meeting the president added a feeling of legitimacy and recognition for what I did.”
President Obama was doing his job as Commander in Chief to visit his troops. Nothing for respect for his gestures of condolence and encouragement to these public servants who have put more on the line than many of us. Thank you, veterans.
You hear that Congress? Don't you DARE skimp on the VA.
These quotes touched me: "It was the first of several visits the president paid Major Haynes, an Army officer who was told he would never walk, feel below his waist or have children again after his spine was hit by a Taliban bullet in Afghanistan. The visits, Major Haynes said, “were truly inspiring to me” and gave him hope for the life ahead of him."
“I can’t even put into words how impressed I was,” said Lt. Cmdr. John Terry, known as Jae, an amputee whose photo of himself doing lunges with Mr. Obama is among his most treasured possessions. “I will remember that day until I die.”
But even some of the president’s critics say his presence ennobled their injuries and made them feel part of a larger plan.
As he buckled his two stumps into prosthetic legs at the hospital one day recently, Edward Klein, known as Flip, a retired Army major, acknowledged, “I wasn’t a big fan of his politically.”
But he added, “Meeting the president added a feeling of legitimacy and recognition for what I did.”
President Obama was doing his job as Commander in Chief to visit his troops. Nothing for respect for his gestures of condolence and encouragement to these public servants who have put more on the line than many of us. Thank you, veterans.
You hear that Congress? Don't you DARE skimp on the VA.
8
God Bless President Obama and all of the men and women who serve this great country. We are truly blessed to have such Americans.
8
I so miss President Obama already, and his lovely family too. What a graceful presence he has been and a source of pride for the USA. It's a shame that Mr. Cohen, along with his partners in crime, Mr. Cheney & Mr. Rumsfeld, didn't find visits to the wounded helpful. Not at all surprising. Now, what carelessness lies ahead for our troops with this man who has vowed to "defeat ISIS?" Will he bother to make a few visits himself, and can we hope for a speck of humanity? Could he imagine one of his children enduring what our wounded warriors have endured? Hmmm.
9
"He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone..."
2
He needs to bring Trump with him.
1
Some veterans would just as soon not see Mr. Obama. What's wrong with that?
3
Imagine Donald and Malenia making rounds........
9
One more reason we are all going to miss President Obama for the next 4 years, if not longer. This most painful of all presidential duties – visiting our soldiers when they return from wars with their bodies and their psyches damaged and destroyed – President Obama does with compassion, dignity and without fanfare. Can you imagine what is to come? President Trump will involve us in a war with some thoughtless words on Twitter, perhaps angering a foreign government needlessly, will not care how many soldiers we send or how we pay for this war and if he ever visits soldiers in hospitals, will try and sell them some scam. Oh god!
7
“A president has to be psychologically prepared to send people into harm’s way and to get a good night’s sleep,” Mr. Cohen said. “And anything they do that might cripple them that way means they’re not doing their job.”
On the off chance that Mr. Cohen reads this: Sir, I can trace my lasting bitterness and sense of betrayal during the Vietnam War directly to the transcripts from Lyndon Johnson’s Oval Office and Robert McNamara’s memoirs. It’s clear that they knew well before they sent me to fight there in mid-1966 that the US could not prevail. I put my life on the line for their own domestic political purposes. And they could do so precisely because they could get a good night’s sleep as they sacrificed their troops to retain their hold on power.
On the off chance that Mr. Cohen reads this: Sir, I can trace my lasting bitterness and sense of betrayal during the Vietnam War directly to the transcripts from Lyndon Johnson’s Oval Office and Robert McNamara’s memoirs. It’s clear that they knew well before they sent me to fight there in mid-1966 that the US could not prevail. I put my life on the line for their own domestic political purposes. And they could do so precisely because they could get a good night’s sleep as they sacrificed their troops to retain their hold on power.
18
Obama is a wolf in sheep's clothing.
He had a chance to limit the chaos and destruction, but he chose to ignore and enhance it.
If he was a caring humanist as this article portrays him, he would stand with the people of standing rock.
He had a chance to limit the chaos and destruction, but he chose to ignore and enhance it.
If he was a caring humanist as this article portrays him, he would stand with the people of standing rock.
I am going to miss our president. He is a class act, not a showboat. He inherited a mess and cleaned it up despite a truculent opposition. He has performed his duties with grace. He has given us eight years of scandal free presidency. He has kept us from new wars.
I go to the VA, too. I get my medical care there and am very grateful for it. It is the best. And I see those fellows who are in pieces, most likely not going home or not going home for a long time. They have given their all, way more than I. And I am so grateful for them and hopeful, too. And for those fire-breathing folks who want us to rush off to war, take a detour through a VA hospital so you can see how expensive it is in lives and limbs. Take a good look. You owe it to yourself.
I go to the VA, too. I get my medical care there and am very grateful for it. It is the best. And I see those fellows who are in pieces, most likely not going home or not going home for a long time. They have given their all, way more than I. And I am so grateful for them and hopeful, too. And for those fire-breathing folks who want us to rush off to war, take a detour through a VA hospital so you can see how expensive it is in lives and limbs. Take a good look. You owe it to yourself.
9
They served. But they learned nothing but bitterness. Which they saved to vent on a man who has sought to find peace and been mocked by Republicans at every step.
Tell me, who is the better man?
Senator Mitch McConnell?
Or Lt. Cmdr. John Terry?
Tell me, who is the better man?
Senator Mitch McConnell?
Or Lt. Cmdr. John Terry?
1
To fully grasp what a president or army commander is doing, shouldn't he see 1st hand the pain & destruction his orders bring. These men & women have paid so dearly & witnesses terrors. Just as leaders should witness poverty... and joy. They must weight the costs & rewards of their actions. I admire this President so much & think of how the Right continuously ridiculed and attacked him as a person... but he maintained dignity. I look forward to the day we have another president who demonstrates his class & integrity.
8
This should be on the front page. Trump's got a LOT to learn from this man. He will be missed terribly.
7
Bush - Clinton - Bush - Obama me thinks that about sums it all up
Can't read your mind here. What in the world does that even mean ?
3
Obama the total mensch. Eliot Cohen the neocon warmonger
disagrees natch.
two others who alwayas visited the wounded without fanfare
ted kennedy and paul wellstone
From beginning to end OBama and his wife were class acts
The vulgarian will follow.
disagrees natch.
two others who alwayas visited the wounded without fanfare
ted kennedy and paul wellstone
From beginning to end OBama and his wife were class acts
The vulgarian will follow.
11
On Monday I accompanied my 89 year old father to the VA hospital in West Palm Beach. He was blown off a cliff in Korea, and suffered a severe head injury. As we walked through the corridors seeing young men in wheel chairs, he said, with a wistfulness, choking up, "This is what President Obama, in ramping down combat, had alleviated, the wounding of young soldiers." It touched me. We will sorely miss President Obama.
16
This beautiful heart-aching article describing our compassionate president should have been the top headline today. Instead we wake up to the con-man/boy buffoon...
15
I am not surprised at all, this man is a an outstanding human being and to quote one of the comments. he was the right man at the right time to be our president. And to my great horror, some members of my family voted for Trump. The comparison of the humanity of these two men is quite stark!!!
16
We will miss Obama most as a human being with a cross that he has born for us in these visits. we surely are with him in spirit and are grateful for his courage. While at Ramapo College I met a Viet Nam vet whose face was covered by a surgical half-mask in VN. It was difficult but important to recognize his service and courage, even as I gasped in horror when I first saw him. Obama in those dozens of visits affirms his Presidential stature.
15
This story brought tears to my eyes. Not only for the bravery of our young soldiers injured in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, but for the honest respect and caring shown by our President, Mr. Obama, who inherited these wars from the previous administration. I will miss his sincerity when he leaves office soon.
14
Two dozen times in 8 years? Yawn
1
I'm sorry how many times have you visited the medical hospitals of wounded vets and given thanks? It better be more than 24 times in 8 years with a comment like that.
15
It's probably a lot more than you would've done.
East to sit back and criticize, isn't it?
Save your yawns for the president-elect....you'll need them.
East to sit back and criticize, isn't it?
Save your yawns for the president-elect....you'll need them.
16
Not the crying type, I read this article with tears in my eyes knowing full well we will not see this again in the next four years, or possibly ever.
Thank you, President Obama, for being there for our U.S. Servicemen and Servicewomen, when it matters most.
And God Bless America.
Thank you, President Obama, for being there for our U.S. Servicemen and Servicewomen, when it matters most.
And God Bless America.
28
Just wanted to mention, the sign you referenced that is framed outside a door telling people to not enter his room to feel sorry for him, was written by a sailor.
3
I will miss President Obama.
25
Thank you President Obama for being there for these people and for your deep and sincere empathy. This piece brought me to tears. I was raised a war orphan so I truly know the unending feeling of loss. Thank you for caring. You really have no idea how much it means.
26
I honor President Obama and his serious attention to his responsibility as Commander-in-Chief. He pays his respects to the wounded veterans who fought for this country and he is respectful and considerate. He sees the human faces behind any order to go to war.
Picture Trump doing the same. Will those wounded be "losers" because, like POWs, he likes the ones that weren't wounded, just as he demeaned Senator McCain?
Picture Trump doing the same. Will those wounded be "losers" because, like POWs, he likes the ones that weren't wounded, just as he demeaned Senator McCain?
21
When this article makes you feel empathy, kindness or regret, remember that over 60 million Americans think war is necessary and Obama is the devil. Still love America?
9
Every President and his family members must go to Walter Reed for hours at a time. The people who serve in the military are not pawns at the nation's disposal. Only 1% serve by the way. How many people know a current service member? Americans must know and understand the deep sacrifices that service members and their families make.
9
I started crying reading this (real sobbing not wet eyes). I'm in mourning that a leader with such grace is being replaced with someone with none. My daughters are young (7 and 4.5) and I want them to remember for the rest of their lives that President Obama was the president when they were born and during their childhood. We've started watching youtube videos of Obama's Coolest or Funniest Moments. I wish they could continue to grow up with such an amazing man as president. President Obama and Mrs. Obama you have beautiful hearts and are filled with grace.
52
Obama will not be described as a great president in the history books, because his legislative efforts were blocked by a fractured Congress. But stories like this make clear that he is a great man. The good he has done for the wounded vets is enormous.
20
Barack and Michelle Obama are the epitome of what is good about America. We will wait a long time for another first couple as intelligent, as tasteful, as caring, as adult, as all-around fine as these two!
46
This is a very moving and emotionally charged report, and President Obama will be remembered for his sincere compassion on a personal level that signifies our best national traits.
28
Might it not have been better had the various presidents not started, not continued but had stopped the almost endless wars since the end of WWII.
1
I might have had a different opinion of President Obama had I read something this good about him 7 years ago. I will be far less critical of him in the future.
8
How unfortunate you are to have seen only what you wanted to see for 7 yrs! and now? WE the people will suffer the consequences taking place before OUR very eyes. A darkness has fallen on ALL of us & upon this land.
7
Coincidentally, just returned from research in Argentina, third excursion there this year, where I interviewed "soldados conscriptos," or "soldados rasos,"thrown into battle in 1982 in the Falklands war as the Dictatorship was playing its final card. Galtierie, last of the Junta generals, provoked the war against the better equipped, better fed SAS commandoes sent by Thatcher to defend the Archipelago.Except that those whom I interviewed, some without limbs, many suffering after effects of "congelacion(extreme frostbite)unable to speak or walk properly, live outside, in a "campamento"in front of the Casa Rosada. They have a little dog, named Christina, after former president who, along with Macri, has denied vet. benefits to these brave men, and who have waited 8 years for recognition and compensation for their sacrifice. At least we treat our veterans with more consideration, and c-in-c deserves commendation for his visits to the wounded and severely wounded at Walter Reed.President might follow up his hospital visits with visits to homes of some of these men and women who have altruistically and courageously served their country. Good article.
4
The cold brutality of Cohen's remarks is deeply disturbing. Here is a man who believes that compassion is weakness; that the horrors of war and violence are just numbers in a utilitarian calculus. His ideal commander-in-chief is blissfully ignorant of the true consequences of his actions. Sadly, he's probably got his wish.
29
I have been tough on Pres. Obama as of late, because I felt like he helped to coronate Hillary when Bernie was really needed, but I respect that he is a decent and honorable man, of distinguished character. We will miss him.
17
To: Jason Shapiro. You put my thoughts into words perfectly. Thank you.
3
Obama is a mensch. What else is there to say?
25
I read this and it strikes me, I want to be like that, I want to emulate his, Barack's, behavior. This is being present and humble.
29
Bush and Obama and their cabinet supporters should have had more regard for not sending our service people into ill-considered and useless wars. Crocodile tears and publicity tours of hospitals will never bring back the losses that our service heroes suffered from being sent into wars that were unnecessary. Praying for forgiveness for the Bush and Obama war sins might be more honest than basking in public relations stunts that never acknowledge their guilt.
1
I am troubled by lumping Bush and Obama together. Bush began both wars, including the needless Iraq war to find non-existent weapons of mass destruction. Obama did everything he could to bring most troops home from both Iraq and Afghanistan. He is forced to keep some troops in the Middle East now to fight ISIS. But this is primarily an air based fight with the land based war fought by the Iraqis and Kurds.
27
Ok. Did you deploy? Did you end up in fire fights you can't talk about? Did you end up enter buildings that chemical warfare was used? Did you enter a county celebrating 9/11.
1
Bill, you could be right about the P.R. motives. I'm going with, "He's sincere." Whichever of us have it the most right, I will bet the wounded were honored and touched that he was there. So let's leave it to them to decide if it was a "stunt."
9
"Don't it always seem to go,
You don't know what you've got til it's gone". Joni Mitchell.
We are going to sorely miss having this kind of American male to represent us.
Decent, big heart, serious, and someone with a conscience.
You don't know what you've got til it's gone". Joni Mitchell.
We are going to sorely miss having this kind of American male to represent us.
Decent, big heart, serious, and someone with a conscience.
34
I hope you mean the servicemen.
2
I was just waiting for a story in response to which I could say how happy and fortunate I am to have witnessed Pres. Obama's election and leadership of our Nation.
It's difficult to find adequate words to express how proud I have always felt--from the day after his first election to this day--that he was our Nation's leader.
His compassion and dignity have always brought honor to his job and to our country. How we are going to miss this man when he leaves office.
Thank you, President Obama.
It's difficult to find adequate words to express how proud I have always felt--from the day after his first election to this day--that he was our Nation's leader.
His compassion and dignity have always brought honor to his job and to our country. How we are going to miss this man when he leaves office.
Thank you, President Obama.
45
Eliot Cohen's comments are a disgrace. To turn a blind eye to the cost of war is the truest proof of neocon cowardice.
Perhaps if more people saw the human suffering we ask so few of us to bear we would spend less time killing each other.
Perhaps if more people saw the human suffering we ask so few of us to bear we would spend less time killing each other.
34
We go from a compassionate, sincere human to a loud, bellicose boor.
36
Who, even if he bothers to go to the hospitals, will breeze in, hand out copies of one of his books, breeze out, never looking directly at the soldier, or his family. Why? It might bother him, and nothing is allowed to bother Trump. He is a failure as a man, a draft dodger, and a coward. That scientist is right about him. He MUST stay away, or he will go out of his way to call them "losers", when he is the loser there.
17
Fill me in. When did Obama serve in the military, or register for the draft?
2
Old engineer... we are not talking about Obama's military service! We are talking about his service to America and his compassion . He's out there doing something good! Are you doing anything good? You think Trumps done any good works EVER? Or shown ANYONE any compassion? I don't think so...
19
Who can imagine a Pres. Trump doing anything like this?
29
"I like people who weren't captured."
-- D. Trump
-- D. Trump
18
We have a good President and a really good man in Obama. It is a relief right now to read a story about a guy we can actually be proud of. The Obamas will certainly be missed.
46
Thank you Mr President. As citizens, let us find the strength to continue your legacy.
38
Isn't this what a president is supposed to do as commander and chief? As far as his manner and style when doing so, that just seems to be the way he naturally. It seems to have nothing to do with the nature of the office itself. I hope he's had a good time as president. Regrets are only the memories one wishes to keep, for whatever reason. He's a fortunate man in having the opportunity to make these visits.
4
The article quotes a Bush official that maybe such visits should be avoided since, as the article also says that Robt Gates says "that seeing the wounded and attending funerals took such an emotional toll that he had to resign". Obama "rejected such criticism".
Maybe give credit where it is actually due.
Maybe give credit where it is actually due.
15
My heart sinks as I read this article and the comments. President Obama has done so much for our military, has shown so much dedication, respect, dignity, and class. He has shown such exemplary qualities of humanity that I'm afraid we will not see in the next 4 years. We're loosing an amazing man and replacing him with someone who earns followers through cheap photo ops and tweets of hate. I have faith that America will learn quickly from our mistakes. We can and must do better. 2020!!!
54
Or he will do something Impeachable much sooner, is my prayer. Impeach him as soon as he deserves it (Jan 21st?), try him, get rid of him (depending on charges either long term in jail, execute him, or if he burns a flag remove his citizenship (per his order) and deport the whole family.). Only 2 places will accept him. Russia, if he pays off his loans, then turns his $10 billion dollars over to Putin, or NKorea, where he will turn everything the whole family owns, plus all his cash will go to feeding the population. While he and his live on the standard fare the NKoreans usually live on. Will make his women just how he likes them the best. anorexic looking. Which over there is starvation. No more KFC for him, ever.
12
Impeachment is not a solution. Then we would have Pence. Who is a mighty scary Conservative. Best bet: big turnout for the midterm elections, so that the Dems take back both houses.
9
No. Not 2020. 2016. Win the House of Representatives! I'm going after Sennsenbrenner.
1
Washington, Lincoln, FDR and BHO
49
Nice one!
7
President Obama you will be sorely missed. You have incredible empathy for people and it was truly an honor to have you as our President for the last 8 years. You have taught our family to care for others by your gracious work. Thank You.
38
Although not a political admirer of Pres. Obama, it's quite encouraging that he takes this particular role seriously and with a strong dose of humanity.
10
One shouldn't be surprised if this decent man has his best days ahead of him in the service of this nation.
42
Oh my God i hope so. I hope even without the office he can do things to combat the horror that is Trump
31
we need compassion and empathy in our national leaders. Thank goodness for a President who has those qualities and does not need to brag about those qualities in himself.
26
If Trump doesnt brag about himself no one, not even his family will. That is why he hands out his books. He then tells the publisher how many he "sold". Might be the only ones not sold for classes in how NOT to be a businessman.
5
" 'A president has to be psychologically prepared to send people into harm’s way and to get a good night’s sleep,' [Eliot] Cohen said. 'And anything they do that might cripple them that way means they’re not doing their job.' ”
This will be useful the next time I teach metaphor. Presidents should not be crippled metaphorically, says Mr. Cohen, by seeing the real crippling that war causes. Okay, then.
This will be useful the next time I teach metaphor. Presidents should not be crippled metaphorically, says Mr. Cohen, by seeing the real crippling that war causes. Okay, then.
14
We absolutely dont want a president who cares nothing for the soldiers he sends out to die. They are nothing but chess pieces to him. By "him" I mean Trump. No one means anything to him except himself.
Every soldier means something to President Obama.
Every soldier means something to President Obama.
12
as tears stream down my face i know i am going to miss this president so much
41
Who writes your headlines? Sacred duty? like the king laying on hands to cure people -- the middle ages?
I'm glad he does this and as he is going to be living in DC he can continue to do so after Jan. 20.
Why are we still in these god-forsaken wars? When will some drug company create the birth control bomb? Men (and I mean males) can be pretty awful A few less would be good for the planet at large!
I'm glad he does this and as he is going to be living in DC he can continue to do so after Jan. 20.
Why are we still in these god-forsaken wars? When will some drug company create the birth control bomb? Men (and I mean males) can be pretty awful A few less would be good for the planet at large!
7
Yet he couldn't lift his hand to help a veteran wrongfully imprisioned but Trump did.
Tahmooressi wasn't wrongfully imprisoned, and the State Department was in frequent contact with the Mexican government concerning his situation. You can't carry loaded weapons into a country that outlaws them without facing consequences, even if you are a decorated US Marine.
2
I am going to miss this decent man as our President, his replacement is an abomination of decency.
42
All those ring wing "Christians" who have accused this President of being Muslim could take a lesson from him on how to truly be a Christian.
45
No where is this more evident than that extraordinary photo of him bowing his head to that little boy. The true definition of humility and Christianity.
29
Ooops, I meant RIGHT wing!
5
This president who has faced so many impediments to the execution of his duty and yet never publicly wavered in his battle to set our country on as solid and morally decent ground as was possible, was the right man at the right time. I can't imagine anyone being a better role model and moral compass for this country in those extraordinarily tough times for our country.
There's been no shortage of critics during his tenure and while he surely had missteps as any mortal would, I for one and I know many, many others (as attested by his approval ratings), feel deeply honored and extremely fortunate to have had his steady hand guiding the ship and his character representing our country to the world.
There's been no shortage of critics during his tenure and while he surely had missteps as any mortal would, I for one and I know many, many others (as attested by his approval ratings), feel deeply honored and extremely fortunate to have had his steady hand guiding the ship and his character representing our country to the world.
212
The sheer beauty and power of a written word(s), and the craftsmanship of storytelling is why writers like Gardiner Harris and The New York times are so necessary and appreciated. Thank you.
27
Well Obama has put enough of them there. He is the only president to have a war going each and every year of his presidency - most are useless unwinnable wars we have no business engaging in.
3
Mmm. The Atlantic says that casualties declined 60% on Obama's watch, as compared with Bush's.
14
That's like being a little bit pregnant. If you don't fight and unnecessary and unwinnable war you have zero casualties.
Bush was right to go into afghanistan and defeat people who attacked us but we have no business trying to defeat the Taliban who are not attacking us. Similarly Bush was wrong to go into Iraq but Obama was wrong to withdraw prematurely and is barking up the wrong tree if he thinks he can defeat iSIS from the air. Libya was an unmitigated disaster.
Bush was right to go into afghanistan and defeat people who attacked us but we have no business trying to defeat the Taliban who are not attacking us. Similarly Bush was wrong to go into Iraq but Obama was wrong to withdraw prematurely and is barking up the wrong tree if he thinks he can defeat iSIS from the air. Libya was an unmitigated disaster.
2
I'm sorry, did HE take us to war? How has HE put enough of them there? Do you know how many fewer troops are in the Middle East today compared to eight years ago?
He has refrained, time and time again, from committing ground troops into conflicts we can't win.
He has refrained, time and time again, from committing ground troops into conflicts we can't win.
17
How about visiting the peaceful water protectors in North Dakota getting their arms literally blown off? How about calling off the police who are working for the oil company, you know, the actual criminals who are illegally trespassing on sacred Native land? How about standing up for people when it requires courage? Oh, that is right; you do not care. At least the media outlets, like the Times, are taking you to task. Oh, wait.
4
Some people are never content.
13
Yeah, some people. I moved back to Ohio where I was born, and I can tell you that SOME people are the reason why Hillary lost to the worst candidate imaginable. Those of you on the coast living on Easy Street have no clue. So, no, I am not content with a president who has misused the Espionage Act to imprison American journalists, who ships jobs away via TPP, who does not stand up for the people in Flint whose water is STILL tainted. I am sorry for not being content like you. I am happy for you.
3
Veterans are going, next week. To stand, unarmed between the police and the water protectors.
Its too late for President Obama to do any good whether he shows up or not. Besides if he did show up he would endanger the protesters more. They police with the secret service, would do anything to keep them apart, including killing them, and the President if necessary. The company building the God, Dam-ned pipeline would demand it, then blame it all on the protesters.
Its too late for President Obama to do any good whether he shows up or not. Besides if he did show up he would endanger the protesters more. They police with the secret service, would do anything to keep them apart, including killing them, and the President if necessary. The company building the God, Dam-ned pipeline would demand it, then blame it all on the protesters.
6
Every military member needs to ask themselves who had their fellow soldiers back when they came back wounded and broken? Hillary and Obama were there when the September 11 rescuers wounded veterans needed their help. Does Trump have any record such record of concern? What part of his federal taxes were used? Will we ever know? All we do know Trump believes that all the generals didn't know what they were doing. Does that mean that the large majority of the military that voted for Trump also think their generals are incompetent? Fortunately, the Democratic Party always has and will contunue to have your backs even though you haven't have theirs. My advice: Don't get hurt or captured. You've contributed to puting the Republican Party in charge . They are pretty good at keeping you occupied but no so good when it comes time to pick up the pieces in the aftermath and protect your treatment when capture. In the latter case of capture even the president you helped to elect thinks you are a loser and do not deserve any heroic recognition.
23
This article touched my core. With his visits to our wounded soldiers, President Obama has reminded me yet again that he is a caring, respectful and generous person. America will miss his honest humility and humanity. We may all disagree with some or all of the policy positions of our elected leaders. But knowing they possess a fundamental goodness makes it easier to accept decisions we don't fully agree with.
Were I to see these characteristics and a semblance of selflessness in our new president elect, I would try to give him some benefit of the doubt. But I don't and therefore I can't.
Were I to see these characteristics and a semblance of selflessness in our new president elect, I would try to give him some benefit of the doubt. But I don't and therefore I can't.
38
I'm not an American, but as an veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan I would like to pay tribute to your president. If only there could be more political leaders with his compassion, grace, humility and humour. It won't be just Americans who will miss him when he leaves the White House.
225
You are right, Ross Boyd. There are many people in countries with ideologies contrary to what the U.S. espouses, who nevertheless connect with President Obama, and through him with what is good in America. People of other nationalities respond to him positively, whatever issues they may have regarding policy. This is not a facile kumbaya thing, but a recognition of his basic decency, dignity and regard for others.
9
I think the best epithet to the Obama Presidency is a passage from the Hebrew Prophet Isaiah Chapter 53: "Who can believe what we have heard? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; He was despised and rejected[ by men, and acquainted with[ grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our grief and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; all we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth".
Pres. Obama will go down in history like Abraham Lincoln before him. Surely history will treat him far kinder than his political adversaries. I wish both he and his family all the very best life can offer the Obamas. The entire assault crowned with the election of Donald J. Trump is an affront of all that is good about Mr. Obama. His integrity, his compassion, his respect for humanity, and his genuine goodness will surely be missed. I suspect his enemies know this too but don't have the courage to admit it. Thanks Obama!
Pres. Obama will go down in history like Abraham Lincoln before him. Surely history will treat him far kinder than his political adversaries. I wish both he and his family all the very best life can offer the Obamas. The entire assault crowned with the election of Donald J. Trump is an affront of all that is good about Mr. Obama. His integrity, his compassion, his respect for humanity, and his genuine goodness will surely be missed. I suspect his enemies know this too but don't have the courage to admit it. Thanks Obama!
41
Thank you for this. He has borne it all with grace and dignity.
20
thank you for this thought provoking comment.
4
President Obama has an obligation to protect the country from all threats, domestic and foreign. I hope he's paying attention to the domestic threat this week. He's running out of time ...
8
He has no obligation to save us from our folly. He did what he is supposed to do, he voted. As some of us did. Those of us who didnt, or who wasted our vote on those who had no chance of winning (like Stein who is now feeling guilty maybe?), on them is the burden of the next 4 years. People who voted for Trump, at least (very least) they voted for someone with a chance to win. That he is short on bainpower, morals, love, is not moot. That Radical Christians, and the Radical Right, did all they could to get those also short of brainpower and morals to vote their way, is. The RCs threw away their morals and so are now: theives, rapists, sexual assaulters, liars, all because they decided morals were less important than winning. I hope they sleep at night. the RRs are the bigots, misogynists, haters, very much the less thans of the people of this country. They will sleep fine, and look forward to ruining as much of this country as they can. They are the white trash (of every economic level). They must hate anyone not like them. They look at themselves and see themselves as less than. Since they are seeing truth, they cant stand, they have to hate the different, the better, the decent human beings. All that they arent.
Radical Right is the proper term, not alt-right. Thats a term to hide what they are. They must never be allowed to hide. Not ever again.
Radical Right is the proper term, not alt-right. Thats a term to hide what they are. They must never be allowed to hide. Not ever again.
5
As much as I honor the President and soldiers who gave so much, I loathe the idea of his witless sociopath of a successor making similar visits; if he dares. And how dare Mr. Cohen suggest future presidents avoid such meetings. It reminds me of what a Civil War general said, that it is good that war is so terrible, lest we grow too fond of it. Mr. Obama is not fond of it. We have our doubts about the successor.
26
If he doesnt send someone else (he hates 2 things, seeing what he does not wish to see, and being bored), he will breeze in, throw some (unsigned) books around, at doctors, not the "losers" who were maimed, give a sort speech in a meeting room about how great he is for being there, and leave. He will be savaged in the press, scream UNFAIR, UNFAIR! and never go again. Thank God.
6
"Eliot A. Cohen, an official in the George W. Bush administration who is now professor of strategic studies at Johns Hopkins University, said that Mr. Obama’s trips to Walter Reed may have been the reason, and that future presidents should avoid the visits."
I know Mr. Cohen's son served in Iraq, though am not sure if he was in a combat unit, either way, I'm glad he came back without injuries. But still, Mr. Cohen is way too big of a warmonger for his views to have a weight on anyone's decision.
Thank you President Obama for doing your utmost to avoid unnecessary wars. You have no idea how much you'll be missed.
I know Mr. Cohen's son served in Iraq, though am not sure if he was in a combat unit, either way, I'm glad he came back without injuries. But still, Mr. Cohen is way too big of a warmonger for his views to have a weight on anyone's decision.
Thank you President Obama for doing your utmost to avoid unnecessary wars. You have no idea how much you'll be missed.
25
As a veteran and parent of an active duty military officer, I commend President Obama on his willingness to witness first hand the outcome of military decisions made on his watch and before. The comments of Mr. Cohen in the article are reprehensible to me. Perhaps if more politicians and "deciders" actually witnessed both the negative and the positive outcomes of their decisions, they might be more willing to find non-military solutions to the world problems.
34
As the proud daughter of a WWII Army Air Corps vet (still living by the way and about to celebrate his 92nd b-day!) and the wife of a Vietnam War Navy Vet, thank you President Obama. I will miss you and your family. Such a class act. Also, your Affordable Care Act saved my son in law from financial ruin when my daughter passed away two years ago. I will be eternally thankful for that. As my daughter always said "much love" to you.
44
Congratulations on your Dads birthday. Give him a hug from me.
My husband was Vietnam Era Navy, on an experimental ship (they got every piece of equipment before it was given to the rest of the fleets). He has never felt "worthy" of calling himself a Vietnam Vet. Or even Vietnam Era. He worked in noisy, dirty, asbestos filled air, keeping those "ideas" working as long as possible. So, the equipment those who went to Vietnam had equipment that worked. Mostly things he did not work on, they never worked very well, they were more idea, than actual. Except variable pitch propellers. His ship tested them.
So, give your son in law a hug from me. And keep one for yourself. You are giving this country a lot. Bless you.
My husband was Vietnam Era Navy, on an experimental ship (they got every piece of equipment before it was given to the rest of the fleets). He has never felt "worthy" of calling himself a Vietnam Vet. Or even Vietnam Era. He worked in noisy, dirty, asbestos filled air, keeping those "ideas" working as long as possible. So, the equipment those who went to Vietnam had equipment that worked. Mostly things he did not work on, they never worked very well, they were more idea, than actual. Except variable pitch propellers. His ship tested them.
So, give your son in law a hug from me. And keep one for yourself. You are giving this country a lot. Bless you.
2
It's unbearable to contemplate what we are losing with the end of President Obama's term. I've been so proud to be an American under his intelligent, compassionate and smart leadership. While I may not have always agreed with him, I never doubted he was doing what he thought was right for the country, not for power, money, political expediency or religious fanaticism. Leading with one hand tied behind his back by the same people now in power who cared for nothing but how to hinder him. Now I am deeply ashamed of my country, shocked by the virulent ignorance the PE has unleashed and abetted and deeply saddened by what this will mean for the future of our republic. We have voted away our moral standing and democratic credibility in the eyes of the world. And while the world is laughing, we will be suffering a yuuge tragedy. God Help Us and God Bless You President Obama!!!
45
Empathy. A characteristic completely lacking in our narcissistic President-Elect.
Will miss you greatly, BO.
Will miss you greatly, BO.
31
Good for President Obama. He is a statesman, a patriot, and a true American, unlike the facist, Donald Trump. I hope, in the next week, we will hear about thousands of flag burnings, as American citizens express their right to free speech.
29
While I honor the fact that President Obama is honoring our Veterans at Walter Reid National Military Medical Center - it is my GREATEST HOPE that President Obama will join the 2000 VETERANS, who are going to Standing Rock Reservation in North Dakota on December 4th, to act as human shields against the over-the-top violence by para-military police. We've all seen the pictures of water cannons hosing down old women in below freezing temperatures.
The Protesters at Standing Rock Reservation are completely non-violent. Ghandi would be proud. They are there, not only to keep major oil pollution from ruining water resources, but to also peacefully assemble and peacefully express freedom of speech. This is guaranteed by the US Constitution. No "cop" should be able to stop that.
Burning fossil fuels is killing our Planet, and thus, ourselves. We KNOW this, and yet, Big Oil cries "eminent domain", and "manifest destiny". Rubbish !
A photo-op at Walter Reid is all well and good. I hope the President has the guts (and, a warm jacket) to stand with Veterans of all ages, of all Wars, and do the right thing by joining them in shutting down the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The Protesters at Standing Rock Reservation are completely non-violent. Ghandi would be proud. They are there, not only to keep major oil pollution from ruining water resources, but to also peacefully assemble and peacefully express freedom of speech. This is guaranteed by the US Constitution. No "cop" should be able to stop that.
Burning fossil fuels is killing our Planet, and thus, ourselves. We KNOW this, and yet, Big Oil cries "eminent domain", and "manifest destiny". Rubbish !
A photo-op at Walter Reid is all well and good. I hope the President has the guts (and, a warm jacket) to stand with Veterans of all ages, of all Wars, and do the right thing by joining them in shutting down the Dakota Access Pipeline.
4
Calling President Obama's visits to wounded men and women a "photo op" is callous of you.
13
If he goes, while President, there will be a greater chance of injuries as the police and secret service will do ANYTHING to (so called) protect him. It is one of the worst things about being President. You cant protest in the way you would like. You must not endanger others.
The article I read about the veterans said they hoped for thousands, but, would take 20-30. Whatever the Good Lord sent them. If I could I would be there. In the water, in my wheelchair, and no matter what the temp. in almost no clothing. I would cover those parts the police would find offensive. I dont find skin offensive, any skin. Let them spray. I will pray. If I could be there, until I froze.
The article I read about the veterans said they hoped for thousands, but, would take 20-30. Whatever the Good Lord sent them. If I could I would be there. In the water, in my wheelchair, and no matter what the temp. in almost no clothing. I would cover those parts the police would find offensive. I dont find skin offensive, any skin. Let them spray. I will pray. If I could be there, until I froze.
1
I was horrified, yet completely unsurprised, to read the quote from the Bush Administration official suggesting that future presidents should not follow Obama's lead and visit the wounded at Walter Reed, lest the visits inspire them to think twice before sending our troops into harm's way. I have long thought the Bushies didn't give a rat's butt about the American people, and our troops in particular, given the way they gleefully sent scores of troops into trumped-up [groan], unwinnable wars then did little to care for the wounded. It's nice to finally have my hunch confirmed.
Compassion and humanity are are not dirty words. To have had a leader who exhibited both traits, who considered the human toll before committing our troops to new and ongoing wars, makes us very lucky. When compassion and humanity are no longer traits to be admired, that's when we will have really lost our way.
Compassion and humanity are are not dirty words. To have had a leader who exhibited both traits, who considered the human toll before committing our troops to new and ongoing wars, makes us very lucky. When compassion and humanity are no longer traits to be admired, that's when we will have really lost our way.
30
President Obama is the most compassionate and empathic of any president in my lifetime and I'm 75 years old! How anyone could suggest that the commander in Chief should not visit the wounded servicemen and women is extremely out of touch with human needs and the healing power of comfort. His visits lift, legitimize and inspire our wounded men and women and provide them with appreciation and gratitude for their sacrifices.
I don't expect, in my lifetime, to experience another president with the integrity and grace of Barack Obama, and I thank him from the bottom of my heart.
I don't expect, in my lifetime, to experience another president with the integrity and grace of Barack Obama, and I thank him from the bottom of my heart.
54
I cried reading this, thinking as so many of us, that we are losing a calm, kind and smart leader who genuinely cares about us --- all of us.
That his particular "successor," who clearly cares for nobody, ponders nothing, and preens away at his imagined popularity, will now occupy President Obama's office, is a national disgrace that makes a majority of Americans sick to their stomachs.
This week, when an intelligent person might be studying along the steep learning curve of the job, he is instead, along with the Klan,planning a series of victory rallies in the swing states, to "reward" his supporters," just as the recounts take place.
A rather curious, though predictable insecurity...
That his particular "successor," who clearly cares for nobody, ponders nothing, and preens away at his imagined popularity, will now occupy President Obama's office, is a national disgrace that makes a majority of Americans sick to their stomachs.
This week, when an intelligent person might be studying along the steep learning curve of the job, he is instead, along with the Klan,planning a series of victory rallies in the swing states, to "reward" his supporters," just as the recounts take place.
A rather curious, though predictable insecurity...
35
So did I . I read it on my subway commute in New York City this morning. Especially the cote that said " will remember until he dies ". I will miss president Obama tremendously!!!
20
A Noble President US will miss him sorely.
25
The best of a man comes when he has to deal with grief - whether it is a wounded soldier or a parent whose child has been shot in a school. This man, we call President, is one of the great ones.
40
I've got two requests:
1) Can the NYT look up how many times his predecessors did this? Even non-"War Presidents" can go to these hospitals, many of these people need hospital and physiotherapy visits for life.
2) Can the dipstick that thinks its bad for Presidents to be aware that sending people into battle causes them to come home in pieces volunteer to pick up the slack? If it's bad for the guy giving the orders to be unable to sleep after giving them, surely it's doubly-important for the war-theorists in think tanks, advising them, to be aware of what they are recommending. Their sleep quality is of as little concern to the public as the health of soldiers is to them.
1) Can the NYT look up how many times his predecessors did this? Even non-"War Presidents" can go to these hospitals, many of these people need hospital and physiotherapy visits for life.
2) Can the dipstick that thinks its bad for Presidents to be aware that sending people into battle causes them to come home in pieces volunteer to pick up the slack? If it's bad for the guy giving the orders to be unable to sleep after giving them, surely it's doubly-important for the war-theorists in think tanks, advising them, to be aware of what they are recommending. Their sleep quality is of as little concern to the public as the health of soldiers is to them.
11
The National Museum of Health and Medicine used to be on the grounds of Walter Reed(it's now in Silver Spring) and one of the few ways for civilians to enter the grounds was to pull into the right-hand entrance lane and tell the sentry on duty "We're going to the Medical museum" and submit the car to an inspection.
I took my wife and two sons there some years ago (2005?) when they were around 15 and 10 years old. After seeing the fascinating museum, we "sneaked" into the hospital next door and had a late lunch in the cafeteria. I wanted my sons to see and sit down near the men and women patients and staff and get a real sense of the cost of war and dedication on the part of those paying that cost.
It was our most memorable visits DC ever, and there have been many.
I took my wife and two sons there some years ago (2005?) when they were around 15 and 10 years old. After seeing the fascinating museum, we "sneaked" into the hospital next door and had a late lunch in the cafeteria. I wanted my sons to see and sit down near the men and women patients and staff and get a real sense of the cost of war and dedication on the part of those paying that cost.
It was our most memorable visits DC ever, and there have been many.
68
It is fitting that the Commander in Chief should acknowledge the human cost of war and pay respect to the sacrifices these soldiers have made. Another painful reminder that the President-Elect is not fit to polish the boots of the brave men and women who serve this country.
30
I'm blown away that some would refuse to see the president because they disagree with his politics. As our Commander in Chief, he is authorized to visit whoever he wants in the military. On a more human note, the president was there, not for fanfare, but to see the people who have paid heavy prices for our foreign policy decisions. If you can't look past politics to appreciate someone trying to appreciate you, that's just sad.
23
If it wasn't for fanfare we wouldn't know about it now.
1
Cynical much?
3
One of the greatest traits a President ( let alone a human being ) can have is empathy,
How can anyone not be touched by the human spirit evoked by those that have the greatest odds just to survive? ( let alone with the loss of limbs )
It's unfortunate that too many have used the VA as a political football, but I do get the sense that President Obama's motivations are true and honorable. ( especially after seeing the photos )
Will President Trump's be the same ? I have major doubts.
How can anyone not be touched by the human spirit evoked by those that have the greatest odds just to survive? ( let alone with the loss of limbs )
It's unfortunate that too many have used the VA as a political football, but I do get the sense that President Obama's motivations are true and honorable. ( especially after seeing the photos )
Will President Trump's be the same ? I have major doubts.
22
Trump will be horrified when he realizes, no when he is told point blank, how much it will cost to do as he said he will. Then he will cut everything out he can.
My veteran is deaf in one ear. Worked in the shaft alley on his ship. Not enough ear protectors for everyone, so everyone got them "sometimes". But, it is not covered. So,he wears one of those "as seen on TV" audio ear thingies. Gets em at Walmart. Cost $20-$30 each, last maybe 9 months to a year. Not great, but, usually keeps me from hitting him, for ignoring me. No help will be coming from Trump. The speaker of the house wants to do away with Medicare. Which already only covers 20% of hearing aids. So, he will remain "hard of hearing". Not important. At least he doesnt have to hear Trump. Just takes it out.
My veteran is deaf in one ear. Worked in the shaft alley on his ship. Not enough ear protectors for everyone, so everyone got them "sometimes". But, it is not covered. So,he wears one of those "as seen on TV" audio ear thingies. Gets em at Walmart. Cost $20-$30 each, last maybe 9 months to a year. Not great, but, usually keeps me from hitting him, for ignoring me. No help will be coming from Trump. The speaker of the house wants to do away with Medicare. Which already only covers 20% of hearing aids. So, he will remain "hard of hearing". Not important. At least he doesnt have to hear Trump. Just takes it out.
4
To me, this is the mark of a truly great man who is our president.
24
This is just one more example of the quiet gracePresident Obama has brought to the office..
37
That's it. That is what Trump totally lacks, Grace.
24
Thank you Mr President for doing this.
20
I have always likened Obama to Jimmy Carter, another nice guy, very smart, who surrounded himself with lightweights and got caught up the Democrat political machine. Great ex-president though, and Obama has the personality and sensitivity to be one as well.
Why does everything have to be a comparison to Trump? How many VA hospitals did Hillary Clinton visit - and she was an elected official, not a private individual...
Why does everything have to be a comparison to Trump? How many VA hospitals did Hillary Clinton visit - and she was an elected official, not a private individual...
2
We're comparing everything to Trump because time is running out before a decent, compassionate and incorruptible man leaves office to be replaced by his polar opposite. Every day I frantically search for some good news, but like this story, it's never about Trump.
18
If she had visited the hospitals you and others would have called it "photo ops", "publicity hound", "bothering the doctors", "should stay where she belongs".
I now say, before anyone else does, that all those things belong to the moronic civilian known as Trump. He will traumatize those patients and should be locked out. Is there a closet at the WH we can lock him and all his administration in for 4 years? We can always fumigate it afterwards.
I now say, before anyone else does, that all those things belong to the moronic civilian known as Trump. He will traumatize those patients and should be locked out. Is there a closet at the WH we can lock him and all his administration in for 4 years? We can always fumigate it afterwards.
5
Obama's "sacred duty" as the Nobel Peace Prize President should have been getting all our troops out of countries in which they do not belong - and he would spare our troops the agony of war. Another "sacred duty" would have been to close our illegal prison camp in Guantanamo, and the "dark sites" located around the globe that contribute to retributive actions (blow back) by people we are killing and countries we are destabilizing. Another "sacred duty" would be his promise to revitalize our infrastructure, make real progress on climate change, get the country off it's addiction to nukes and oil, and close the pipelines that will contribute to environmental damage - not if it happens, but when. His failure so far in fulfilling his "sacred duty" is the legacy he will leave behind in January.
But unfortunately, Obama's actions of putting more troops into Somalia, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Yemen, Afghanistan, Libya will only add to the troops future presidents will have to visit at Walter Reed.
But unfortunately, Obama's actions of putting more troops into Somalia, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Yemen, Afghanistan, Libya will only add to the troops future presidents will have to visit at Walter Reed.
3
Apparently you haven't heard of the Republican Congress that blocked many of these things you list for the last six years. Some homework and research would greatly expand your knowledge base.
10
You must have lived under a rock the last 8 years to be this ignorant about the state of D.C. Politics under the GOP. Why don't you go get the job done?
10
The Unilateral Executive and Executive Orders - things that all Presidents before Obama have used, could have been used for this wish list. Bypass the republicrats in Congress and make it so, Number 1. Would they have held up? Don't know, but Obama didn't even try.
This will be the test for someone like Trump, will it not? If he prefers service personnel "who weren't captured" (his reference to Senator McCains lengthy imprisonment in North Vietnam), how does he feel about members of the military who "weren't wounded"? Because no one who's been in combat escapes injury, whether they come home physically whole or not.
Running a country and committing its forces to harm's way it is not a movie; it is not reality TV show. Trump is a man who has escaped the consequences of his actions throughout his adult life. How can he possibly assume responsibility for the suffering of others?
Running a country and committing its forces to harm's way it is not a movie; it is not reality TV show. Trump is a man who has escaped the consequences of his actions throughout his adult life. How can he possibly assume responsibility for the suffering of others?
13
Can you see Trump doing this? I can't
21
That's what you get when you elect a genuine human being.
26
It is a wonderful thing that President Obama goes to visit our veterans. Many of them are there due to his continuation of the Bush Wars.
In addition, it would be a wonderful thing if he visited hospitals in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, and LIbya to see the people who have been injured by his drones and bombs.
Also in addition, how about American aid to fund rehabilitation for these people?
Our moral obligations should not end at our borders.
In addition, it would be a wonderful thing if he visited hospitals in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, and LIbya to see the people who have been injured by his drones and bombs.
Also in addition, how about American aid to fund rehabilitation for these people?
Our moral obligations should not end at our borders.
2
President Obama is such a fine, decent person. We will miss our current commander and chief. Nothing to look forward to with the incoming commander and cheat.
20
I hate war more than anything in the world, but I have tremendous admiration for President Obama for doing this. I don't think most people could do it.
There will not be another like him for quite some time.
There will not be another like him for quite some time.
18
And now the rooms are getting increasingly empty of injured soldiers, and nothing to visit for the new boy president; he would jump into a new war somewhere, and the soldiers would rejoice because they love to get maimed and killed for a "strong" leader.
3
It is a wonderful thing that President Obama does to visit injured veterans. Many of them are there due to his continuation of the Bush Wars.
In addition, it would be a wonderful thing for him to go to the hospitals in Syria, Somalia, Yemen, Iraq, and Afghanistan to visit the victims of American bombs and drones. Many of those he would see are there due to his actions.
Also how about American money for hospitals and programs for rehabilitation?
Our obligations do not end at our borders. Let's acknowledge that and help the people whom we have injured.
In addition, it would be a wonderful thing for him to go to the hospitals in Syria, Somalia, Yemen, Iraq, and Afghanistan to visit the victims of American bombs and drones. Many of those he would see are there due to his actions.
Also how about American money for hospitals and programs for rehabilitation?
Our obligations do not end at our borders. Let's acknowledge that and help the people whom we have injured.
1
I wrote a script about soldiers from these wars and did a ton of research and one of the things I found so amazing was the political beliefs of many of these soldiers. Die hard Republicans despite being sent by a Republican president off to wars they know are a travesty. People's beliefs are amazingly irrational. Obama is such a dramatic upgrade over Bush, and obviously better than anything Trump will do, but these guys will go with their beloved Republican party. Bizarre.
15
I am a veteran of the Cold War Era and part of my time was spent in the Army Medical Corps, the other part as a Signal Corps Photographer. Just saying that as background.
It is good for our leaders- not just Presidents- to visit with our wounded troops who will deal with the consequences of policy for the remainder of their lives as an living admonition to be very very sure before committing our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines to combat and putting them in harm's way. I would advise Mr Cohen, quoted in the article to visit not only Walter Reed, but also a couple of VA hospitals and clinics where veterans of wars long since past are still dealing with the mental, emotional and physical impacts of war.
I did not vote for President Obama either time and disagree with his policies from the left, but compliment him on the honorable way he has conducted himself in these matters. I would recommend the President Elect make a trip to Walter Reed as soon as possible and before he makes any changes to our national security policy. Politicians make the choice but the troops on the line pay the price in so many ways.
The men and women who serve our country come from every place, every background and serve for any number of reasons. They voluntarily subject themselves to double jeopardy via Military and Civil Law and promise to follow the orders of officers and others places over them by we the people. The soldier has to follow the lawful orders made by who you elect.
It is good for our leaders- not just Presidents- to visit with our wounded troops who will deal with the consequences of policy for the remainder of their lives as an living admonition to be very very sure before committing our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines to combat and putting them in harm's way. I would advise Mr Cohen, quoted in the article to visit not only Walter Reed, but also a couple of VA hospitals and clinics where veterans of wars long since past are still dealing with the mental, emotional and physical impacts of war.
I did not vote for President Obama either time and disagree with his policies from the left, but compliment him on the honorable way he has conducted himself in these matters. I would recommend the President Elect make a trip to Walter Reed as soon as possible and before he makes any changes to our national security policy. Politicians make the choice but the troops on the line pay the price in so many ways.
The men and women who serve our country come from every place, every background and serve for any number of reasons. They voluntarily subject themselves to double jeopardy via Military and Civil Law and promise to follow the orders of officers and others places over them by we the people. The soldier has to follow the lawful orders made by who you elect.
67
Good luck with your recommendation to President Elect whose name you don't mention. Definitely especially meaningful advice coming from Cold War Army Medical Corps. signal photographer to Donald Trump. I wouldn't hold my breath for that photograph.
4
God help them the next 4 years.
1
I can only imagine a visit by our next President:
"These soldiers are not heroes.....they are only heroes because they were wounded....I like soldiers who weren't wounded, OK?"
"These soldiers are not heroes.....they are only heroes because they were wounded....I like soldiers who weren't wounded, OK?"
11
A touching story for sure. And this was the President and Commander-in-Chief that Trump spent 8 years trying to discredit by falsely claiming (lying) that Obama was illegitimate because he was born in Kenya and was a secret Muslim.
To this day 40% of Republicans feed their own bigoted hated by believing this lie.
America. What has happened to it?
To this day 40% of Republicans feed their own bigoted hated by believing this lie.
America. What has happened to it?
15
I've known about President Obama's visits. Most people haven't, simply because of he is one of the great ones. When I think about who is following him, I want to vomit.
22
Articles like this sadden me knowing how insincere Donald Trump would appear doing the same. I have yet to see or hear one thing indicating Trump has the slightest bit of empathy and compassion in him.
15
...and the next President, if he deigns to even go to a VA hospital before he privatizes them, will tell the soldiers that he prefers those who weren't injured.
14
One of the many things I fear about Mr. Obama's replacement is, he will take Eliot Cohen's incredibly insensitive and just flat wrong comment totally, yugely to heart. He has already stated very plainly his opinion of POWs. Now, Cohen's putting the blame on a service member's injuries directly and squarely on the wounded themselves he is nothing less than approval and affirmation of Trump's stated dislike of POWs.
Trump received a large majority of the votes of military veterans. A vet myself, I am at a loss to explain why.
Trump received a large majority of the votes of military veterans. A vet myself, I am at a loss to explain why.
12
Empathy is one of Obama's great strengths. I can't even imagine Donald Trump being able to do this. I am so sorry to se O go.
11
I disagree with Eliot Cohen, it should be required for those involved in deploying troops into harms way to make visits like these, to attend funerals of fallen military, etc. Maybe then we wouldn't lose or have military maimed and injured due to ill gotten and conceived political gambits.
6
Good for Obama. We will miss him, but remember he's still in charge.
6
This is so typical of the Times, of Obama, I won't even bother reading the article. But will say:
If Obama had any guts at all, many of those soldiers wouldn't be there, they wouldn't be missing beloved -- and useful -- body parts.
As for the Times: "For Obama, Visiting Wounded at Walter Reed Is Sacred Duty"
Geez, Times: don't think you're maybe putting a lil bit too much editorializing -- not to mention sanctifying -- in your headline?
If Obama had any guts at all, many of those soldiers wouldn't be there, they wouldn't be missing beloved -- and useful -- body parts.
As for the Times: "For Obama, Visiting Wounded at Walter Reed Is Sacred Duty"
Geez, Times: don't think you're maybe putting a lil bit too much editorializing -- not to mention sanctifying -- in your headline?
"Editorializing" is to express an opinion. To "sanctify" means to declare something holy. This story does neither.
A word of advice: read something before you criticize it. And check your dictionary before throwing around big words.
A word of advice: read something before you criticize it. And check your dictionary before throwing around big words.
10
What a great human President Obama is, we are sure going to miss you.
11
O Captain my Captain! The likes of this man we shall not see again for many, many painful years. No matter how you feel about him politically, I double-dog-dare anybody to find this man's better, let alone equal, in the last 20 (or next 4) years. Thank goodness he has hesitated to send our children to war because of his impactful visits to those whose lives have been broken by the policies of people who blindly sent them into harm's way (never having been there themselves).
16
This powerful story so filled with truth, grace and elegance on every side, in so many ways, such telling touches and details, such eloquent testimony to the 'wages of war' but also the power of empathy and engagement when it's on a personal level -- not as a political pantomime or orchestration, but something real, that cannot be faked. So truthful, so painful, so moving. Thank you.
7
Obama is not yet out of office... but I sure will miss the solid classy and elegant way he executes the duties, both those explicit duties as defined in the Constitution and the expected duties assigned by our culture and heritage. I sincerely hope that the next president can 'grow into the job' but some journey's may be just too long. Perhaps we can always hope for presidential tweets for the wounded, and presidential Youtube videos after natural disasters and unnatural national tragedies. Thank you President Obama, for eight years of not having to wonder what you would do next.
6
Going from President Obama to the Donald is maddeningly depressing.
12
Obama is for sure a class act; unfortunately, most of the military rank and file is too emotional, and yes, uneducated to really appreciate or even deserve him.
8
Barack Obama is a good man.
8
Whenever I see him doing these wonderful acts of community involvement in such a kind and dignified way, it actually makes me terribly sad. I am so proud of him as a decent human being that when I think of what is replacing him, it is almost too difficult to read the story.
10
President Obama is in a league of his own. Superb intelligence, great leader, and a really decent person. Would love to have a beer with him.
13
This is Obama (and perhaps any president) at his best. The fact that he's done so largely under the radar makes it even more praiseworthy. Ooh-Rah!
9
I have a former student who was wounded badly in Iraq and one of his prized possessions is a photo from Walter Reed of himself receiving his Purple Heart from President Bush. Eliot Cohen's suggestion that Presidents should not visit and face the consequences of their decisions he is way off base
9
Should be required duty for Congressional chicken-hawks before they make decisions on war.
11
President Obama, so misrepresented as not being born here and a Muslim, will be missed...love his compassion; this will be lacking in our next presidential administration. Every president should be required to visit those they sometimes so cavalier place in harm's way. These young men are our true heroes.
13
I do not always agree with the President on his policies-----but he is a good man all the way around.
9
As a veteran it certainly does resonate with me the perils of war. Having being deployed overseas knowing that like me they went over and had hopes to come back. I am so touched that our President exudes such compassion and empathy for our troops. This cements his hesitation to send troops in arms way if he doesn't. he could easy well make a decision to do so. I truly hope that others would emulate such attribute and keep our troops home as much as possible.
87
Eliot A. Cohen's criticism of the President's visits to our wounded military is not surprising. George W. Bush even refused to witness the arrival of our dead military men and woman, perhaps at the suggestion of Mr Cohen. The very men and women who Bush sent into harms way in his ill-conceived war.
15
It sounds like Eliot Cohen would prefer to have a computer as Commander in Chief. It wouldn't let emotion interfere with giving the order to invade a country.
5
President Lincoln had the same compassion and inner strength that our current president has. He, like president Obama, faced his critics in the field hospitals he visited. One visit, a week before his assassination, was at City Point, Virginia, where Lincoln encountered a confederate officer, Col. Henry L. Benbow, who hesitated in meeting the president. Lincoln extended his hand warmly and was met with equal equanimity by Benbow.
Critics would say he was giving aid and comfort to our enemies, as Dick Cheney accuses our current president of doing. Like Lincoln, Obama is on the right side of history and Cheney and Trump are not. Trump says, "You have to take out their families, when you get these terrorists", while Obama is healing a nation, traumatized by occupying countries. Lincoln would be proud, as am I of Barack Hussein Obama.
Critics would say he was giving aid and comfort to our enemies, as Dick Cheney accuses our current president of doing. Like Lincoln, Obama is on the right side of history and Cheney and Trump are not. Trump says, "You have to take out their families, when you get these terrorists", while Obama is healing a nation, traumatized by occupying countries. Lincoln would be proud, as am I of Barack Hussein Obama.
29
The photo of Lt. Cmdr. Terry and President Obama should be in the dictionary. Right next to the word "empathy".
12
I suggest that Pres Trump will likely visit wounded veterans frequently.
2
Trump will boast to them what a big guy he is.
3
Or he'll send them tweets.
6
I read this and wanted to cry. I still cannot believe that the country that was able to elect this man twice would commit suicide by electing the joke who will be his successor. We may be seeing the last real President of the United States.
27
Blame it on the lousy candidate selected by DNC, not the voters.
Facile, wrong, and inappropriate here.
4
So what was it about this gracious, dignified, intelligent, learned and thoughtful man that engendered such hostility from so many Americans? Why aren't these the qualities we should expect from our leaders? How did voters think it would be OK to elect the antithesis of President Obama. How am I, now labeled a member of the Liberal Elite, to respect people who voted for Trump? I too shed tears reading this article. For the wounded soldiers, for President Obama who has been so mistreated and for our country's future.
45
The people who turned the word "liberal" into a demeaning epithet don't know what liberty is.
7
Agree. This has been going on at least since the Reagan years.
3
What was it about him that engendered such hostility? His Black skin.
1
Leadership. Service. Intelligence. Compassion. Our transition this January will truly be from the sublime to the ridiculous. And to the frightening.
22
I have never doubted that Obama's heart is in the right place. This article simply puts into relief his fine and compassionate character. I initially decided to vote for Obama while reading Dreams from my Father. About eight or ten pages in, I was astonished at the quality of his writing and his perceptiveness. It would be great to have a president with this level of sensitivity, I thought. He has not disappointed. There is a gut-level sincerity about Obama that always comes through. Though I could not bring myself to vote for Clinton, I am very proud of my two votes for this man.
We can only hope that American intervention abroad and these kinds of devastating injuries will dramatically decrease under President-Elect Trump. Let the world figure itself out. Let's put America and Americans first again, especially our precious veterans.
We can only hope that American intervention abroad and these kinds of devastating injuries will dramatically decrease under President-Elect Trump. Let the world figure itself out. Let's put America and Americans first again, especially our precious veterans.
7
Oh Lordy. I tried not to cry I really did, but wasn't successful.
239
Me too!
3
Me, too.
3
Me, too
2
Compare this photo with the Twitter-Raging 140 character Court Jester-In Chief. Sorry folks- there's no way around the comparison.
109
Great article but almost ruined by the appearance of what might be the most telling and asinine statement from any government official, ever. The former Bush official who said the president's judgment was impaired by his visits to the wounded must have been quoted out of context right? No one could possible make such a ridiculous statement, a monument to the perils of running a country and conducting a war completely devoid of empathy for the lives you impact. I quiver at the prospect that this thoughtful and dignified president is being followed by one that makes Obama's predecessor look like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln fused together.
57
Maybe for once you would just embrace and not tear down. I don't know much about you ;however, keep the negative vibes away. l am not sure if you have served. But, knowing there is a body bag on the plane for you is most terrifying . Also, to come back home with missing limb(s) is also not an easy path. It doesn't matter what political affiliations you are at this moment. Let that rest and embrace the initiative and be grateful that he is not going to the hospital to see you or your love ones.
1
Having spent years taking my father to the VA for his medical care, I had the privilege to spend time with veterans from wars going back to Korea. In fact it was seeing young soldiers returning from Afghanistan and Iraq, and their families that made appreciate exactly President Obama's sentiment, "my god these are kids just starting out in life, this is just the beginning for them". It spurred me to become a volunteer with the VA and not just be one of those who say the words "thank you for your service" twice a year.
I would argue that Presidents who didn't serve should be more like Obama and spend that time at the VA and not just at military bases. If Bush Jr and Cheney had spent time at the VA I wonder if they wouldn't have been so cavalier in Iraq.
I would argue that Presidents who didn't serve should be more like Obama and spend that time at the VA and not just at military bases. If Bush Jr and Cheney had spent time at the VA I wonder if they wouldn't have been so cavalier in Iraq.
65
I share your sentiments. let it be a deterrent to use as much diplomacy to resolve conflicts as much as possible. I went to Afghanistan and the fear that took hold of me was crazy. Even now, I tear up inside seeing where I was and how some folks never came back and it could have been me.
6
Like him, or not, the guy's a mensch.
107
"future presidents should avoid the visits"; a backward statement if I ever saw one. Military experts always say that war should be the last option, because they are aware of the consequences first hand. I recall Senator John McCain, who I also respect, making many quiet visits to Walter Reed, and having similar feelings afterwards. I did not vote for, but have great respect for President Obama as a good man and for this effort in particular. I hope future presidents follow his lead in this regard.
37
Who is slicing onions?
33
President Obama, regardless of his politics, has done more to support the military than any other president in my lifetime. I can't believe the same country that elected him twice just elected the likes of Trump...
342
lol, share those same sentiments
"President Obama, regardless of his politics, has done more to support the military..."
If you consider unnecessarily sending 30,000 more troops into the no-win cauldron known as Afghanistan, you're right.
If you consider unnecessarily sending 30,000 more troops into the no-win cauldron known as Afghanistan, you're right.
Supporting the troops does not mean putting more troops into Somalia, Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Libya - actions that will only add to the number of wounded and damaged troops that future presidents will have to visit at Walter Reed.
1
That's the real president.
104
Shouldn't presidents see the results of what they've ordered? And shouldn't those sent to war receive visits from the Commander in Chief if they want to see him and he's available? Generals know the results of battles because they've been in some themselves. It doesn't seem to stop them from ordering men and women to fight where necessary. Compassion from a distance is not as meaningful as a personal visit. That visit says to the patient/soldier that the president of his/her country does appreciate the sacrifice, does understand what was involved, does care. And you know what, those same soldiers probably feel more cared about and respected than they did before. A boost to one's morale is always welcome.
37
Eliot Cohen suggests the president stop visiting maimed military and get a good night's sleep but for this mother of two young adult sons, both registered with the Selective Service, sleep hasn't come easily these last weeks. Will Donald Trump visit our children in hospital or will he tweet a virtual Purple Heart?
36
We are losing a good man. As for the purple heart tweet, the prospects are worse. Trump accepted a veteran's purple heart on the campaign trail, saying he had always wanted one. It doesn't get much lower than that, especially coming from someone who worked so hard to avoid military service.
5
Snowflake,
Anyone with sons older than 18 has sons registered with the selective service. Don't make it sound like a sacrifice.
But as an aside, I enlisted in the Army at 17. Then, about 6 months after my 18th birthday, my parents got a letter from the selective service claiming that I had yet to register for the draft and would suffer dire consequences unless I did so immediately. My dad is a Vietnam vet and, as such, developed a sense of humor when it comes to government incompetence. He forwarded me the letter. I got it while I was in the field - during the desert phase of ranger school. Had no access to phones. So I gave the letter to one of the instructors and he got a HUGE kick out of it. It made its rounds through Ranger School. Everyone got a big laugh and I became known as the draft dodging ranger.
It was an honest mistake. I figured that since I was already IN the Army, there was no need for me to register for the selective service. My dad loves telling that story.
Anyone with sons older than 18 has sons registered with the selective service. Don't make it sound like a sacrifice.
But as an aside, I enlisted in the Army at 17. Then, about 6 months after my 18th birthday, my parents got a letter from the selective service claiming that I had yet to register for the draft and would suffer dire consequences unless I did so immediately. My dad is a Vietnam vet and, as such, developed a sense of humor when it comes to government incompetence. He forwarded me the letter. I got it while I was in the field - during the desert phase of ranger school. Had no access to phones. So I gave the letter to one of the instructors and he got a HUGE kick out of it. It made its rounds through Ranger School. Everyone got a big laugh and I became known as the draft dodging ranger.
It was an honest mistake. I figured that since I was already IN the Army, there was no need for me to register for the selective service. My dad loves telling that story.
My comment did not imply sacrifice but it's good you shared your example of benign military incompetence.
1
So smart, so honorable, so classy. I will sorely miss this once-in-any-democracy President. Ditto for Michelle, a truly great First Lady.
Wish we could have third terms.
Wish we could have third terms.
74
No you dont. What if we could have 3rd terms (not so long ago, legally we could) and we got stuck with Trump for 12 years (or more)?
Roosevelt saw that problem after he own his 3rd win. We needed him then to get us through WW2. But, he might not have been as exemplary a man and used his 3rd term to solidify a permanent position. King, Emperor, Tsar? I think Trump is such a man, and it should make it harder for him to do that, now that a 3rd term is not possible.
Roosevelt saw that problem after he own his 3rd win. We needed him then to get us through WW2. But, he might not have been as exemplary a man and used his 3rd term to solidify a permanent position. King, Emperor, Tsar? I think Trump is such a man, and it should make it harder for him to do that, now that a 3rd term is not possible.
i am a retired teacher and have many former students who have served in the military. One of them spent many weeks at Walter Reed after losing both lower legs in Afghanistan. He is the bravest and most resilient young man I know.
I cannot imagine the kind of person who would not be affected by seeing the kind of damage and loss that war does. I am thankful that President Obama is not such a man, but I fear that our next president is just that that kind.
I agree with previous comments that President Obama is a good man, and I think that nearly all of his predessors have been good men too. At the heart of my sorrow about the election is simply the fact that Donald Trump is not a good man. How on earth have we fallen so far?
Thank you for your sacrifice and service, President Obama. Thank you for sharing your wife and daughters with us. Thank you for your grace and dignity. Thank you for caring about all Americans and especially our military members and their families. Oh, how we will miss you!
I cannot imagine the kind of person who would not be affected by seeing the kind of damage and loss that war does. I am thankful that President Obama is not such a man, but I fear that our next president is just that that kind.
I agree with previous comments that President Obama is a good man, and I think that nearly all of his predessors have been good men too. At the heart of my sorrow about the election is simply the fact that Donald Trump is not a good man. How on earth have we fallen so far?
Thank you for your sacrifice and service, President Obama. Thank you for sharing your wife and daughters with us. Thank you for your grace and dignity. Thank you for caring about all Americans and especially our military members and their families. Oh, how we will miss you!
114
Yes we will ... sorely miss President Obama, the First Lady and his family.
M
M
46
amen. the next four years are going be bereft of this kind of compassion and unselfishness. what does this country really want from its leadership? what, ultimately, is it prepared to ask for those who fight its battles and bear the unyielding weight of the consequences?
5
The strength, compassion and humility of our current President really knows no bounds. I cried while reading this because I fully realize that the next four years will leave so many of us feeling a deep sense of loss. Mr. Obama is simply an old soul, a true gentleman and he will be sorely missed. Thank you so much for your service to this country dear Mr. President!
132
Another of countless examples of our President's extraordinary and singular humanism, personal generosity, and deeply felt concern and appreciation for our noble warriors and, by extension, for each of us. A truly remarkable man whom we will miss with profound appreciation for his lasting impact in defining the character of a great President. Can you even begin to imagine PE Trump ever being capable of making visits such as these, with the genuine feeling and intuitively pitch perfect ability to connect with our wounded service men and women, so immediate and natural to President Obama? Never.
115
Not because he is an African American and I am but because he is compassionate and human.
1
Maybe he will make such a visit, and maybe he will then see what true self-sacrifice and service are.
And say he has a Purple Heart too. That hes always wanted a Medal of Honor. Thats what trump will say to the wounded Warriors.
It is praiseworthy of the c-in-c to visit the wounded and severely wounded at Walter Reed, but it would be an even greater tribute to visit some of the families whose kith and kin were casualties of war. Thus far, Obama, in his 8 years in office has yet to visit down and out areas where life is tough for the average family, and perilous to boot, that is to say housing projects in his home city of Chicago and elsewhere. 43's annual mountain bike marathons do much to raise the morale of wounded troops, and President Obama could organize similar events."In for a penny; in for a pound!" Expression derived from interviews in Algeria with activists before independence:"Quand on s'engage a fond, ce n'est pas pour faire de la bombinette!"
1
Maybe President Obama could go back to Walter Reed Hospital one final time before he leaves office, and to invite Donald Trump to come along with him on the meet' n greet tour. Trump could be actually, possibly be humbled for the first time in his life.
24
excellent idea!
"You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink."
@Audio Recording Pro: Donald is fifteen years' President Obama's senior and if he hasn't learned compassion and humanity in 70 years of life there is nothing Mr. Obama can or should do to enlighten him.
@Audio Recording Pro: Donald is fifteen years' President Obama's senior and if he hasn't learned compassion and humanity in 70 years of life there is nothing Mr. Obama can or should do to enlighten him.
3
That's a great idea.
I have so much incredible respect for Pres. Obama, Michelle and team. Despite facing this situation stepping into the role, he has been a leader in understanding the true on-the-ground impact of decisions that face American soldiers. A presidential role-model, who is going to be sorely missed.
17
This is being presidential and being willing to face the consequences of war with compassion, grace, and sincerity. President Obama, we will miss you so much.
49
It should be sacred duty for Presidents to visit those wounded under their command. President Obama has been exemplary in his commitment to the troops. And, as much as I disagreed with President Bush's policies, he also treated wounded soldiers with utmost care and respect. I'm afraid we can't expect the same from the incoming President, who joked he "always wanted" a Purple Heart.
207
I hold George Bush personally responsible for the injuries to every serviceman and woman who were sent on a wild goose chase into Iraq for no reason. He gets no points from me for visiting the wounded during his term. This is yet another way Barack Obama had to mop up what eight years of a Bush presidency did to this nation. I can only imagine- with terror, about the next four.
23
I had to place this story on my FB timeline so year after year on this day, it will pop up for me and take me back to a time where Presidents were indeed human and had genuine interest in its citizens . It's going to be a long road ahead.
40
Excellent idea! I'm going to do the same, and encourage others as well.
"Critics see another effect. Over the course of his presidency, Mr. Obama has become increasingly unwilling to commit troops to wars in places like Libya, Syria and Iraq." Are these from the Mission Accomplished Brigade; Bush & Co. own the Iraq mess. POTUS has stated he has problems with dumb wars, kudos for his approach to these visits.
43
Role model. Gonna miss this guy.
45
I'm glad Obama went to see them , because they probably won't want a visit from the draft dodger that will be President soon.
24
In what branch of the service did Obama serve?
I'm sure he registered but was not required (or drafted) to serve. Trump actively avoided serving during a time of war. Same outcome, big difference in how they got there.
3
I can't imagine Trump bothering to visit wounded soldiers or having even half an ounce of Obama's humanity.
38
Or being able to do,the push-ups.
5
Great story, too bad his schedule only allowed a couple of dozen visits. It sounds like he was quite an inspiration to the wounded, as well as gaining something personal from the visits as well.
12
President Obama, do not abandon us, NOW we need you, big time!
XOXOXOXO
XOXOXOXO
33
What a class act! We will truly miss you President Obama. A moving reminder that the effects of war make it all the more important to have an intelligent, prudent Commander in Chief leading our country.
48
Some years ago President Obama twice visited a young soldier I know who lost his legs after an IED blew him up in Afghanistan. He had a very long recovery at Walter Reed. The soldier and his family were thrilled with the visit, which was an enormous boost to the soldier's frame of mind and to his distraught parents. His parents have spoken repeatedly of Obama's kindness and respect to their son. The solider has said repeatedly to friends how much the President's conversations with him inspired him in his recovery.
President Obama has brought so much compassion and dignity to his job. How we are going to miss this great man when he leaves office.
Thanks Obama! From the bottom of my heart.
President Obama has brought so much compassion and dignity to his job. How we are going to miss this great man when he leaves office.
Thanks Obama! From the bottom of my heart.
464
I am reminded -- even if President Obama's work is radically altered by the new administration, no one can take away his decency, intelligence, humor, and so many other good qualities that we shall miss and that will be remembered in years to come.
2
We need and deserve Presidents who embody dignity, compassion and character. Donald Trump can't tweet his way into earning our respect. Read about his paranoid rants last night, and compare that show of "character" with what Obama has consistently displayed these last 8 years. I am trying hard not to feel full-on despair but our President-elect gives few other options.
23
President Obama has brought such dignity and humanity to the Office of the Presidency. His intelligence, wit, and compassion have made me proud to be an American. His leaving is depressing.
116
Where is the acknowledgement of the Veteran's hospital scandals under the Obama administration? It's our Presidents 'sacred duty' to look after the veterans quickly and with the very best care and Obama has had eight years to make serious improvements. The veterans didn't vote to continue his policies from the polls that I have seen.
Seems like just another Obama legacy piece to me - front and centre in the Times, most likely with photos furnished by the White House.
Seems like just another Obama legacy piece to me - front and centre in the Times, most likely with photos furnished by the White House.
5
You do realize that the Republicans control both Houses of Congress?
They blocked just about everything he tried to push through.
They blocked just about everything he tried to push through.
21
Oh go jump rope with a soldier. The Veterans debacle was years in the making. It came to light under President Obama's administration, but his administration did NOT cause it.
Geez can you come out of your bubble?
Geez can you come out of your bubble?
13
The scandals at the VA hospitals cannot be condoned, but to understand why. Opening up the system to all vets who suffered from Agent Orange Syndrome created a large backlog, coupled with pressure to move them through the system quickly, funding that is inadequate at best and red tape and you have a perfect storm. The VA should be funded as a mandatory item, not discretionary which would help. Not knowing how much you will receive every two years is challenging at best. What you should do is lobby you reps to make funding the VA mandatory and if you have a VA hospital or clinic in your area, volunteer. I sometimes feel that some people are so blinded by their dislike of the President that they can't see what good he has done.
11
Maybe if Congressional leaders who control the purse strings followed the President's example, the government would do a better job of caring for those the government sends to war.
The former Bush administration's official's criticism of the President is stunning. This person worked for Bush and Cheney, who pulled strings and used deferments to avoid serving in Vietnam because, as Cheney stated, he had "other priorities" at the time. He advocated for the invasion of Iraq. The administration he served took the country to war on fabricated falsehoods about WMD and Iraq's participation in the 9/11 attacks. That administration ran one of the most disgusting PR stunts of all time: having Bush fly onto an aircraft carrier in a flight suit conveying the message "Mission Accomplished." The administration this person served "accomplished" devastation of the entire region. Millions have died and been displaced. Terrorist organizations threatening the U.S. have proliferated. Instability and war are constants in the entire region. Yet he complains President Obama might be reluctant to engage in similar military adventures based not on truthful and reasoned assessments of the country's national security interests, but because the President has the basic human decency to visit grievously injured service members in his capacity as their Commander in Chief. Unbelievable.
The former Bush administration's official's criticism of the President is stunning. This person worked for Bush and Cheney, who pulled strings and used deferments to avoid serving in Vietnam because, as Cheney stated, he had "other priorities" at the time. He advocated for the invasion of Iraq. The administration he served took the country to war on fabricated falsehoods about WMD and Iraq's participation in the 9/11 attacks. That administration ran one of the most disgusting PR stunts of all time: having Bush fly onto an aircraft carrier in a flight suit conveying the message "Mission Accomplished." The administration this person served "accomplished" devastation of the entire region. Millions have died and been displaced. Terrorist organizations threatening the U.S. have proliferated. Instability and war are constants in the entire region. Yet he complains President Obama might be reluctant to engage in similar military adventures based not on truthful and reasoned assessments of the country's national security interests, but because the President has the basic human decency to visit grievously injured service members in his capacity as their Commander in Chief. Unbelievable.
79
And to top it all off Cheney greatly increased his wealth through no-bid contracts for Halliburton of which he was a large stockholder.
2
Deeply grateful for President Obama's legacy of kindness, compassion, thoughtfulness, and graciousness. He inspires us to become the best within us.
67
There was a time in America when people routinely visited sick friends in the hospital, went to cemeteries on the anniversaries of deaths of their loved
ones, wrote condolence letters, kept a close eye on the circumstances of their elderly neighbors and gave their seats on buses over to handicapped people. That time is now quickly passing.
ones, wrote condolence letters, kept a close eye on the circumstances of their elderly neighbors and gave their seats on buses over to handicapped people. That time is now quickly passing.
11
Oh, stop it.
Every ethnic group in the country has some sort of remembrance ceremony and ritual for the dead.
Every ethnic group in the country has some sort of remembrance ceremony and ritual for the dead.
1
President and Mrs. Obama, you have brought dignity, compassion, intelligence, kindness and unwavering strength to the highest office in the land. Thank you for setting the bar high, so successors may be inspired to follow your example. I, for one, am sad and sorry to see you go.
67
This man, this wonderful compassionate brilliant man, just cannot become a venture capitalist when he leaves office. I am sure he will find better things to do. Look to Carter for your inspiration. Keep feeding the homeless, inspiring the young, comforting the afflicted and above all, please afflict the comfortable.
55
The article captures such profound humanity. Of the suffering, cost of war and the compassion of the people who see / experience its aftermath.
The bhagvad Gita , an ancient text, confronts this basic premise. When the warrior Arjuna is on the battlefield, he is conflicted to take up arms against his own family . Krishna, reminds him , one does what one has to, no matter the cost. I'd like to think of Obama as Arjuna, sad about taking up arms, but doing what he must. How can he be gleeful about sending people to die? No conflict has been solved by war. At best, it brings people to the table to make peace. Sometimes temporary, sometimes permanent.
The bhagvad Gita , an ancient text, confronts this basic premise. When the warrior Arjuna is on the battlefield, he is conflicted to take up arms against his own family . Krishna, reminds him , one does what one has to, no matter the cost. I'd like to think of Obama as Arjuna, sad about taking up arms, but doing what he must. How can he be gleeful about sending people to die? No conflict has been solved by war. At best, it brings people to the table to make peace. Sometimes temporary, sometimes permanent.
10
In Vietnam I did small team type of hunt and hide work. I only cared about those on the teams. Anyone in the rear was just logistics.
I never once considered how tough it must have been to our officers to remain in the safe rear while they sent us out. And normally our officers did not go out. What kind of stress and guilt they must have felt then.
My unit had over 40 percent KIA and WIA.
What do I call a slightly over 40 percent causality rate-----a great decision not to stay with 1/9. There causality rate in that line companies had to be over 100 percent.
The officers that sent those men out------I wonder how haunted they are today?
I never once considered how tough it must have been to our officers to remain in the safe rear while they sent us out. And normally our officers did not go out. What kind of stress and guilt they must have felt then.
My unit had over 40 percent KIA and WIA.
What do I call a slightly over 40 percent causality rate-----a great decision not to stay with 1/9. There causality rate in that line companies had to be over 100 percent.
The officers that sent those men out------I wonder how haunted they are today?
7
Eliot Cohen is wrong, as usual. As a veteran, I want our Commander-In-Chief to fully appreciate what sending troops into harms way means. It's important that they see and experience the sacrifice that too many have to make. Perhaps they will also contemplate the implications for the enemy combatants and civilians impacted by their orders. It takes more than a bumper sticker to "Support our troops." For your contemplation, I highly recommend Mark Twain's "The War Prayer."
34
President Obama has been voicing concern about his legacy. His successor is already planning to attack it on multiple fronts. However one thing will remain intact, and it may be the most important, and that is his humanity.
51
“ 'A president has to be psychologically prepared to send people into harm’s way and to get a good night’s sleep,' Mr. Cohen said. “ 'And anything they do that might cripple them that way means they’re not doing their job.' ”
I am pretty sure Trump will do the part of his job that consists in not going to visit the wounded.
I am pretty sure Trump will do the part of his job that consists in not going to visit the wounded.
12
Thanks to our current President for the qualities of kindness, thoughtfulness, and his true appreciation of both the horrors of war and the sacrifices of our women and men in uniform.
I am so sad that he is leaving and sadder still at the knowledge that his successor is incapable of any of these qualities.
I am so sad that he is leaving and sadder still at the knowledge that his successor is incapable of any of these qualities.
41
Maybe he wouldn't have to visit so often if he actually ended the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now there will be more disabled vets because of our illegal actions in Syria too. The first American soldiers died there a few days ago.
Obama's "sacred duty" is nothing more than a token feel-good gesture. The US tries so hard to put a smiley face on it's hideous war machine.
Obama's "sacred duty" is nothing more than a token feel-good gesture. The US tries so hard to put a smiley face on it's hideous war machine.
8
@visitor--If you have ever been to a VA hospital you would realize this is more than a 'feel good token.' Try it sometime.
33
Those who started the wars couldn't finish them either, certainly because they went in under false pretenses AND without an Exit Plan... but go ahead and blame President Obama, if it makes you feel better.
5
visitor- freedom comes at a price.
2
President Obama is a once-in-a-lifetime president for me. We are so lucky to have had his gracious leadership for eight years. I'll never understand how we went from the kindness and compassion and intelligence of this man to the complete antithesis. Change election like never before. I miss him already.
142
Obama had 8 years of fawning press coverage - really a unique position for an American president- so naturally you assume he's some flawless demigod floating above the stink of regular politics. He also governed exactly how the typical NY Times readers - a well-heeled and highly educated bunch - think the country should be governed.
Obama spent 8 years pleasing the readers of the NY Times and mostly ignored the problems in flyover country. It was easy for him to do because the political press, filled with admirers, never really bothered to ask why so much of the interior of the country was turning Republican. He was not a particularly good president in that respect. As long as he got reelected and his press clippings were good - no problems, man.
Obama spent 8 years pleasing the readers of the NY Times and mostly ignored the problems in flyover country. It was easy for him to do because the political press, filled with admirers, never really bothered to ask why so much of the interior of the country was turning Republican. He was not a particularly good president in that respect. As long as he got reelected and his press clippings were good - no problems, man.
3
Ditto, I feel we are now traveling down a dark hole where there may be not end in sight. I respect and admire President Obama and I feel honored to have lived the past eight years with his leadership. A truly quiet gentleman one we rarely see who has the interest of the people at heart. He will be missed
9
What did the republican controlled congress do for flyover country? I will wait.
3
The article illustrates not only President Obama's capacity to touch those and their families who have sacrificed so much, but also offers hope that soon-to- be former President Obama will continue to touch so many with his decency and inner compass. My New Year's wish is that in going forward that he fully makes use of his genuine humanitarian instincts as he continues to touch humankind in unknown ways.
75
To Eliot Cohen -- imagine if these were your own children or loved ones? Then would you want your President to consider their sacrifice?
This should be required reading for the incoming President and Vice President-elect. Consider it a lesson in human decency, compassion and humility.
This should be required reading for the incoming President and Vice President-elect. Consider it a lesson in human decency, compassion and humility.
70
According to Mr. Cohen, we would be better off with a heartless automaton leading our country. Everyone, especially the president, should understand the human cost of war.
6
You know that if and when Donald Trump does this, there will be a lot of cameras. The fact that President Obama did this without fanfare, just because it was the right thing to do all the time Donald Trump was questioning his citizenship says everything you need to know about the character of these two men.
220
And, if he ever goes, Trump will suck up all the oxygen in the room talking about himself . . . . I will miss President Obama and his family being in the White House.
10
I was deeply touched by this story and reminded of similar visits by Abraham Lincoln to the wounded during the Civil War. On both instances, the presidents were greatly criticized during their terms and were considered to be "failures". Only after he was gone was Lincoln praised for his vision and his compassion. So too, shall we miss Obama when we compare him to his successors.
122
It also reminds me of Franklin Roosevelt. He usually took steps when in public to disguise his legs, damaged by polio. But when he visited wounded soldiers, he let them see his disability, to give them hope that their own injuries would not destroy their lives. Mr. Obama's rising to a soldier's push-up challenge shows the same kind of decency and humility.
3
Many months ago I stated realizing how much I was going to miss the comforting presence of President Barack Obama in the White House. Reading this article has concretized that thought. Thank you Mr. President.
As for Prof. Cohen's comment...I am reminded of the George S. Patton quote that he liked to "see the arms and legs fly". Where do these fools think those limbs come from? What do they think of the those who lose them? Apparently not much.
As for Prof. Cohen's comment...I am reminded of the George S. Patton quote that he liked to "see the arms and legs fly". Where do these fools think those limbs come from? What do they think of the those who lose them? Apparently not much.
68
In reading all the comments here I am struck by one amazing and unprecedented common thread--whether the writers agreed with President Obama's policies, whether they even liked him--every single one of them praises his dignity, integrity, and genuine concern for people. There are very few, I think, who will not miss this unusual man and his family in the years ahead. He has brought an elegant humanity to the White House. Remarkable.
246
I just mentioned Donald Trump stating, "You go to war with what you have," when i should have stated, Donald Rumsfeld. I apologize.
3
I will miss this President so.
69
The damage the IED's did to our GI's has never been discussed in relation to how unprepared our VA was for the sheer numbers of returning para- and quadriplegics, and then add those who suffered brain trauma, the men and women who got half their brains blown away riding around in what were no more than SUV's that lacked the armor necessary to withstand the explosives they encountered. And Donald Trump's, "You go to war with what you have," avoided the responsibility he deserved for the decimation of our troops. And remember, most of these GI's were in their teens and twenties and will need care for at least another 50 years. 50 years. So when you hear that George W. Bush's invasion of Iraq cost us $3 trillion dollars and counting- believe it. Unlike past wars, our advanced triage keeps alive many who would have died before they could get the care needed to keep them alive long enough to get to hospitals. Our VA hospitals are still overflowing with those wounded and you wonder why President Obama is in no way, shape or form going to put 'boots on the ground' again? It's now all about drone warfare. So beware all that bravado from Ted Cruz and Donald Trump, all that chest thumping they do. Boots on the ground? No way will we interfere in tribal battles like these again. And I haven't even mentioned how our bases had to be retrofitted with tens of thousands of ramps and all kinds of door hardware for our returning crippled amputees.
28
God bless all of our military. Be they those who sacrificed life or limb and those just hunkered down around the world gettin' it done. I will be saving this article because it demonstrates what is most magnificent about our democracy. Critics of the President who did not shirk their duties and who went to war at a horrible cost to them were strong enough to reject seeing him at all or seeing him and feeling like they played a role in what makes our country great (in spite of what others may think). As for Eliot A. Cohen?... How foolish. For the leader of our nation not to have the humanity to revisit again and again where his decisions take men and women and to use that information to make the best decisions in war time is ridiculous. I applaud and will miss President Barack H. Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama and Vice Presiden Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden.
62
To constantly having to read what a bad guy our next president will be but then seeing these pictures of handicapped troops caused by the lies of President Bush but not punished by President Obama I feel a deep sadness of what America is all about.
14
It's really too bad men like Mitch McConnell and Paul Ryan stood in the way during the two terms of Pres Obama's presidency. Who know what this President and Congress could have accomplished. Instead they (Rep leadership) showed what petty, mean, vindictive men they are.
As often cited, many of us are going to miss this genuine article soon to be replaced by a man who is petty, mean, and vindictive.
This is a wonderful and sad article. Having volunteered at the Bronx VA during the 70s, I know the kind of heart breaking place it can be (as well as awe-inspiring). That Pres. Obama continued to visit (without fanfare) just re-enforces the image of the kind, thoughtful, genuine person he is (as well that of Michelle). I disagree with Mr. Cohen, this is the place Trump should visit. Maybe it would teach him humility and help him to understand some ideals are bigger than the individual.
I also believe that despite the fact that Hillary lost, President Obama's legacy will endure.
As often cited, many of us are going to miss this genuine article soon to be replaced by a man who is petty, mean, and vindictive.
This is a wonderful and sad article. Having volunteered at the Bronx VA during the 70s, I know the kind of heart breaking place it can be (as well as awe-inspiring). That Pres. Obama continued to visit (without fanfare) just re-enforces the image of the kind, thoughtful, genuine person he is (as well that of Michelle). I disagree with Mr. Cohen, this is the place Trump should visit. Maybe it would teach him humility and help him to understand some ideals are bigger than the individual.
I also believe that despite the fact that Hillary lost, President Obama's legacy will endure.
87
And now we will have McConnell's wife back on the federal payroll. Her father is a billionaire shipping line owner. Wonder how her government service will add to his and therefore her bottom line!
2
It is kind of President Obama to visit the soldiers, no doubt about that.
But how I wish we could just bring all of our soldiers home. We need to end the wars and this senseless death and destruction. We cannot hope to change people's minds at the same time we are killing them, their children, and their families and neighbors. We must stop the bombing, the drone strikes, and the killing. President Obama just asked for 11.8 billion dollars for more war effort--wars that Trump will inherit.
Please, President Obama, earn your Nobel Peace Prize now.
But how I wish we could just bring all of our soldiers home. We need to end the wars and this senseless death and destruction. We cannot hope to change people's minds at the same time we are killing them, their children, and their families and neighbors. We must stop the bombing, the drone strikes, and the killing. President Obama just asked for 11.8 billion dollars for more war effort--wars that Trump will inherit.
Please, President Obama, earn your Nobel Peace Prize now.
11
Eliot Cohen, not for the first time, has it exactly backwards. It is crucial that presidents know and see for themselves the human cost of going to war, not to deter him or (one day) her from sending our troops into harm's way, but to ensure that the cause is worthy of the sacrifices made by these men and women. And I believe that is what has guided President Obama.
54
“A president has to be psychologically prepared to send people into harm’s way and to get a good night’s sleep,” Mr. Cohen said. “And anything they do that might cripple them that way means they’re not doing their job.”
Sure sounds like a Bush administration official to me.
I assume Cohen would be equally opposed to the candidacy of an actual combat veteran. Would not want anyone who had actually experienced the horrors of war to be in a position of making decisions about deploying troops or keeping them as safe as possible.
Sure sounds like a Bush administration official to me.
I assume Cohen would be equally opposed to the candidacy of an actual combat veteran. Would not want anyone who had actually experienced the horrors of war to be in a position of making decisions about deploying troops or keeping them as safe as possible.
34
Prof. Cohen's advice to avoid seeing the wounded, in order to have the courage to commit others to battle, is a coward's solution. Real bravery comes in knowing the true potential costs of committing to battle and going forward when it is needed. We must stand-up to the 'bullies' of this world that will count on our fatigue from years of war to weaken our resolve, but that is different than taking the hawkish attitude that Cohen advocates.
34
Obama belongs on Mount Rushmore.
No question.
No question.
69
I wish Obama or his administration had taken up the job of putting this and other efforts out there for the general public to see. By and large, veterans did not feel appreciated in his presidency. At least that was the impression during the 2016 election.
4
It was a class act not to use his visits for political purposes. Being the child of a WWII veteran who did the same visiting as the President, I can assure you that most
veterans knew Obama was visiting. The word get around.
veterans knew Obama was visiting. The word get around.
8
I just cried, as I often do when I read about Obama. How awesomely he treated the office of the president, and the soldiers who deserved his attention.
119
We'll never have another one like him.
106
Yes we will. We've had great, compassionate, presidents before and we will again.
1
Beyond dignity and grace, President Obama brought genuine empathy and a sense of measure to the presidential function. Despite, or probably because of, his mixed heritage he was able to connect with people from different backgrounds. He will be missed.
84
#leadership
62
Sometime in the Fall--before the election results were in, my wife wrote to President Obama. She told him how much she appreciated the way he had carried out his duties as President. She received a personal response thanking her for the letter and encouraging her to continue with her efforts to be a good citizen. She was very moved.
As a retired cop, I probably bring a cynical outlook to many things I encounter in this human condition. This President--no matter what I've thought of his politics, has again and again gotten past my jaded judgements.
He seems so absolutely decent and so set on trying to do the right thing. He would have made a great cop--if you think you'd want your cops to be fair, care, and be mindful before they took action. I will miss him big time.
As a retired cop, I probably bring a cynical outlook to many things I encounter in this human condition. This President--no matter what I've thought of his politics, has again and again gotten past my jaded judgements.
He seems so absolutely decent and so set on trying to do the right thing. He would have made a great cop--if you think you'd want your cops to be fair, care, and be mindful before they took action. I will miss him big time.
705
But, he doesn't like guns.
I could not agree with you more on your post.
Very inspirational.
33
I once wrote a comment in the WaPo that Mr Obama did not respect our soldiers and vets. after reading this article I'am ashamed at how little I knew about Mr Obama Presidency.
128
Hi George,
It takes quite a man to admit his faults and to publish your admission in the Gray Lady is courage. You get a long distance fist bump from me!
It takes quite a man to admit his faults and to publish your admission in the Gray Lady is courage. You get a long distance fist bump from me!
34
It takes a big man to admit it.
17
I recall reading an article seven or eight years ago about President Obama's quiet solo visits to military hangers so that he could offer his respect and thankfulness to the returning dead.
6
Eliot Cohen sounds like he could use some time at Walter Reed. Many sons and daughters might benefit from him seeing the price of war.
40
I fear we may never see his like again.
84
Bravo, President Obama. I realize that military people like Trump bigly. However, does anyone think Trump will ever feel the pain and suffering of a wounded soldier and their family? Trump and Pence will tell soldiers that they knew what they were getting into when they joined the military and that soldiers who get injured should have known better so as not to get injured. Remember the comment by Trump about John McCain and his capture in Vietnam.
58
Thank you President Obama for your wisdom, kindness, gentleness, strength, and leadership. Thank You.
101
Tears are running down my face as I read this article. President Obama
has shown our country that "real men" are intelligent, articulate, loving,
treat all people with respect, and care for the sick and injured. In a world that has much darkness, President Obama is a shining light.
has shown our country that "real men" are intelligent, articulate, loving,
treat all people with respect, and care for the sick and injured. In a world that has much darkness, President Obama is a shining light.
286
Janet, I cried as well. I didn't always agree with him but he has shown grace and dignity. I know he has done this before but this year it's even more poignant. I couldn't imagine Trump doing anything like this.
12
My recollection is that Lincoln spent considerable time at the Soldiers' and Sailors' hospital comforting the wounded and dying. How difficult that must have been with thousands of wounded and dying.
Did Professor Cohen take that into account with his gratuitous comment when he criticized President Obama?
President Obama has shown courage in facing his responsibility to our military men and women. It is the duty of any military commander, and especially the Commander in Chief, to care for the casualties of military conflict, including visiting them.
Did Professor Cohen take that into account with his gratuitous comment when he criticized President Obama?
President Obama has shown courage in facing his responsibility to our military men and women. It is the duty of any military commander, and especially the Commander in Chief, to care for the casualties of military conflict, including visiting them.
99
Mary Lincoln did also. She spent countless hours in the hospitals in Washington and Maryland visiting soldiers and assisting in their care. She did not identify who she was to the soldiers. Likely just "Mary."
Eleanor Roosevelt did also, but her status was obvious.
Eleanor Roosevelt did also, but her status was obvious.
16
Will Trump say, "I appreciate soldiers who were NOT killed or wounded," as he once spoke about Senator McCain?
I cannot see Trump ever doing this well, or perhaps even at all, as he is known to be disgusted by sickness and deformity... and the disabled.
I cannot see Trump ever doing this well, or perhaps even at all, as he is known to be disgusted by sickness and deformity... and the disabled.
84
Obama has brought a dignity and grace to the Presidency that will be sorely missed, as this article depicts. I disagreed with his politics in many instances but never in the way he and his wife conducted themselves in the White House. His deportment is the standard by which his successors should be judged.
124
This Marine mom thanks you, President Obama and First Lady. You have done so much behind the scenes without much fanfare for military families--some of which I have personally witnessed. Thank you and God bless.
265
I'm troubled by Cohen's words. Few powers are exclusively given to the Executive branch and one of them is Commander and Chief of the Armed Forces. It is a President's duty to visit the wounded and honor his troops. A wartime President will be forced to make tough decisions that will end with the maiming and death of soldiers. In those times it's more important than ever for the President to visit the wounded. Not because it might change his decisions but to show the troops that he truly understands their sacrifices.
301
FDR visited the wounded and maimed. It didn't stop him from sending our men to Guadalcanal, Iwo Jima or Normandy.
2
ditto!
That advice( by Cohen) is Machiavellian and devoid of empathy. But it probably is true reflection of the way things are.
1
I remember watching President Obama at Dover AFB, when the bodies of the military members killed in the war had come home. I knew then he was much more than the president he is and will always be commander and chief. Thank you President Obama for helping me to be proud to be a black man who has served and still works to serve the war fighter. America is great!
96
I will miss this president's deep intellect, his measured response to every question, his compassion and more than anything else his ability to analyze consequences before he takes any action.
228
No one abhors war more than a normal sane moral humble empathetic humane military combat veteran.
Every American owes either military service or community human rights service as a diligent informed dutiful citizen. And if you fail to vote then you do not matter as a fan, audience and spectator to the American dream.
Every American owes either military service or community human rights service as a diligent informed dutiful citizen. And if you fail to vote then you do not matter as a fan, audience and spectator to the American dream.
17
You are so right. My father and his friends fought in WWII. All of his friends hated war and wanted the US to avoid future wars.
4
You folks do know that Barack Obama never volunteered nor served, ever, in the US military in any capacity?
@ Concerned Citizen
Yes and so what? Obama did work in community human rights service.
Dwight Eisenhower warned America about the rising socioeconomic political influence danger of the military-industrial complex.
Since 9/11/01 a mere 0.75% of American have volunteered to wear the military uniform of any American armed force. None named Trump, Gingrich, Giuliani, Carson, Christie, Limbaugh, Ryan, DeMint, Huckabee, Hume, Wallace, Kristol, Cohen, Cornyn, Kyl etc.
Members of my family have fought in every North American war from the French and Indian War to Afghanistan and Iraq. I have an Uncle who was one of the few black men at Iwo Jima. And I have ancestors who were aides to General George Washington throughout the American Revolution. I have a black ancestor who was conscripted into the Confederate Army then became a Union POW then a Union soldier then a Buffalo soldier.
Yes and so what? Obama did work in community human rights service.
Dwight Eisenhower warned America about the rising socioeconomic political influence danger of the military-industrial complex.
Since 9/11/01 a mere 0.75% of American have volunteered to wear the military uniform of any American armed force. None named Trump, Gingrich, Giuliani, Carson, Christie, Limbaugh, Ryan, DeMint, Huckabee, Hume, Wallace, Kristol, Cohen, Cornyn, Kyl etc.
Members of my family have fought in every North American war from the French and Indian War to Afghanistan and Iraq. I have an Uncle who was one of the few black men at Iwo Jima. And I have ancestors who were aides to General George Washington throughout the American Revolution. I have a black ancestor who was conscripted into the Confederate Army then became a Union POW then a Union soldier then a Buffalo soldier.
2
This article should be required reading for all those who think we should have our troops fighting all over the World. Tears fell, and I most sincerely thank every soldier who served protecting our country. I deeply appreciate the sacrifice so many have made and continue to make on behalf of our nation. A great President understands their sacrifice. I hope the next one will do so as well, but I fear he won't.
145
Don't it always seem to go
That you don't know what you've got til its gone
They paved paradise
And put up a parking lot...
Joni Mitchell
That you don't know what you've got til its gone
They paved paradise
And put up a parking lot...
Joni Mitchell
45
President Obama will be missed with a sadness never experienced in my 55 years for a president leaving office. This man is all heart. His natural ability to connect, grieve, laugh and love are among his greatest gifts.
His soulful presence, grace, and eloquent words have helped the country heal from numerous tragedies. His faith and belief in humanity have offered hope when there was little to none. Embracing much gratitude for our 44th president.
His soulful presence, grace, and eloquent words have helped the country heal from numerous tragedies. His faith and belief in humanity have offered hope when there was little to none. Embracing much gratitude for our 44th president.
387
Thank you. I choked up reading this.
45
amen
7
We share not just a respect for our President, but we are both also the same age as him. Pretty cool to have him as our contemporary, right?!
1
Zane Grey: "To bear up under loss; To fight the bitterness of defeat and the weakness of grief; To be victor over anger; To smile when tears are close; To resist disease and evil men and base instincts; To hate hate and to love love; To go on when it would seem good to die; To look up with unquenchable faith in something ever more about to be. That is what any man can do, and be great.”
Presidents are surrounded by monuments to greatness. Here's a president who obviously understands that there is greatness to be found among the living, and consistently goes out of his way to acknowledge it. Echoes of Lincoln during the Civil War - perhaps there's something in the water in Springfield that engenders a heightened sense of responsibility and duty.
Presidents are surrounded by monuments to greatness. Here's a president who obviously understands that there is greatness to be found among the living, and consistently goes out of his way to acknowledge it. Echoes of Lincoln during the Civil War - perhaps there's something in the water in Springfield that engenders a heightened sense of responsibility and duty.
80
I already miss this compassionate, decent, grown up, level-headed man in the White House.
292
A beautiful story about a wonderful man. His compassion to soldiers reminds me very strongly of Lincoln. We will really miss President Obama.
169
Thank you Mr. President. We will greatly miss your kindness and compassion for one and all - not just the chosen few.
87
If Trump does this at all, he will find a way to make a travesty of it.
54
Or, about him.
23
He'll pocket a medal for himself. Again.
1
British Army leadership in WWI refused to visit their own trenches after their failed offensives, as they felt viewing the carnage would unduly diminish their enthusiasm for the war. Mr. Cohen seems to endorse such an outlook. There is a difference between pursuing a difficult course while acknowledging painful consequences, or being a moral coward and willfully ignoring the potentially devastating consequences of your actions on other's lives. Commanders at tactical levels certainly have to live with that knowledge, and they do their jobs more cautiously, and effectively, for it.
If you want to effectively lead, you have to be willing to acknowledge the cost, not ignore it. Otherwise you're just gambling with other people's lives, and they will know it.
If you want to effectively lead, you have to be willing to acknowledge the cost, not ignore it. Otherwise you're just gambling with other people's lives, and they will know it.
134
President Obama dressed in scrubs and went into the recovery room at Walter Reed so he could visit my friend. It meant a lot to all of us.
278
I lean conservative, having voted for Romney in 2012, but for Hillary in 2016.
I was never a fan of Obama's politics, but I have learned over time that he is a decent man that cares deeply about the country and its people. Its a shame he can't run for a 3rd term, as he is better than Hillary, and far better than Trump.
I was never a fan of Obama's politics, but I have learned over time that he is a decent man that cares deeply about the country and its people. Its a shame he can't run for a 3rd term, as he is better than Hillary, and far better than Trump.
103
I think any decent commander would visit the wounded. Yes it is hard, but it shows well deserved respect.
War should not be easy. Sleepless nights are not reserved to those in the field.
President Obama is doing the right and human thing caring for his fellow citizens.
War should not be easy. Sleepless nights are not reserved to those in the field.
President Obama is doing the right and human thing caring for his fellow citizens.
220
Even George Patton visited soldiers in hospitals. He cried too.
2
Showing mercy, kindness, compassion and putting oneself in the space of another is magnificent.
203
“Eliot Cohen, an official in the George W. Bush administration … said that … future presidents should avoid the [Walter Reed] visits.” That may be the most incredible statement in this article – the idea that seeing the actual, horrible, unadulterated, physical results of a decision should be avoided. Perhaps this says much more about Mr. Cohen and his work for the Bush regime than about President Obama, but the mind still boggles. Not only will history be very kind to Barack Obama, but also within a couple of years, lots of people are going to miss his empathy, thoughtfulness, reasonableness, and intelligence.
547
Nope, I already miss him, in anticipation...
48
Two things:
In 1968, waiting to muster out of the Army, I was put in charge of a detail that unloaded bodies from aircraft at Dover AFB for two straight days. The volume was staggering in 1968. Every member of Congress, and the smarmy clueless like Eliot Cohen, should take a turn doing that for a day.
I visited a friend in Walter Reed during that time who, without a family who could afford it, had never had a visitor of any sort, except me. I only visited him because I happened to be in the area. For a President of the United States to do this, and on a regular basis without fanfare, just floors me. I have nothing but respect for this man, and Mrs. Obama
In 1968, waiting to muster out of the Army, I was put in charge of a detail that unloaded bodies from aircraft at Dover AFB for two straight days. The volume was staggering in 1968. Every member of Congress, and the smarmy clueless like Eliot Cohen, should take a turn doing that for a day.
I visited a friend in Walter Reed during that time who, without a family who could afford it, had never had a visitor of any sort, except me. I only visited him because I happened to be in the area. For a President of the United States to do this, and on a regular basis without fanfare, just floors me. I have nothing but respect for this man, and Mrs. Obama
67
Eliot Cohen, can we just state the obvious? War is bad for people. If you want to look away from that, then shame on you, you don't deserve a public office.
8
This article moved me deeply.
Bless all those wounded soldiers and families.
The thanks of a grateful nation barely begins to cover what we owe them.
Keeping them safe from harm. That's what we owe them for starters.
Cheney/Bush retired long ago. Perhaps visiting wounded trips would be a good way for them to spend some of their free time.
Bless all those wounded soldiers and families.
The thanks of a grateful nation barely begins to cover what we owe them.
Keeping them safe from harm. That's what we owe them for starters.
Cheney/Bush retired long ago. Perhaps visiting wounded trips would be a good way for them to spend some of their free time.
131
Cheney and Bush's free time should be spent in front of the world court for war crimes.
29
I'm a partisan Democrat who believes that Bush was a historically terrible president responsible for the unnecessary injuries/deaths of many Americans servicemen and women. But I do feel obliged to note that I've read multiple reports that he spends quite a bit of his post-presidency time with wounded veterans. Cheney, probably not.
17
Cheney/Bush retired long ago. Perhaps visiting wounded trips would be a good way for them to spend some of their free time.
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They both visited wounded troops while in office and Bush continues to support them though work with his foundation
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They both visited wounded troops while in office and Bush continues to support them though work with his foundation
Thus we witness the sorrows of empire...
31
I am ex Navy. No matter what you think of Obama's politics, the man showed respect to military sacrifice in every way and pursued drone warfare as a means of lowering the death and injury rate to American soldiers. He and his family were part of feeding the homeless for Thanksgiving every year. The man has shown class and respect in every way. I will miss him immensely as I know this will not be the focus over the next four years.
590
PaulB said it best, so much better to resist partisan comments here.But I will say, this President conduct the duties of his office with unrivaled dignity as well as incredible warmth. He embodies the best qualities of our country through his very nature and instincts, and in the process inspires our better natures. Thank you President Obama, I am so glad I lived long enough to see the Office be all it could be with a good man in it.
455
Is it because I now compare President Obama to the current President-elect that I feel such deep sorrow?
Knowing that all Obama has done (without a tweet) will be demeaned by this upcoming Ship of Fools is almost more than I can handle.
As for the quote from Eliot, shame on you. You are what keeps us at war...
Knowing that all Obama has done (without a tweet) will be demeaned by this upcoming Ship of Fools is almost more than I can handle.
As for the quote from Eliot, shame on you. You are what keeps us at war...
341
Cohen's comment is one of the most idiotic things I think I have ever read.
51
Eliot Cohen is one of those who wants endless wars, because he thinks Israel needs endless protection and reshaping of the ME, because of that country's own policies and behavior.
1
The close and careful work of historians will show what many of us know -- he has been a great President, one of the best.
271
President Obama - you are a genuinely good and decent person. I am so proud that you have been my President.
441
Ex-Nav, Medical Corps,Dessert Storm era......This is another example of why I think I was right to vote for/support this President. Much maligned, he will be missed.
303
I understand President Bush did the same thing, also without publicity. I'm sorry some patients declined to see the President. Despite disagreeing with his policies, he is their Commander in Chief and he is there to recognize them, not to discuss politics.
210
Who would decline a visit from President Obama? Who? Such pettiness. Such disrespect.
9
I understand President Bush did the same thing, also without publicity.
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He did do the same thing when in office and continues to help wounded veterans through his foundation.
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He did do the same thing when in office and continues to help wounded veterans through his foundation.
4
Those that served and returned with nothing but bitterness, spite and -- perhaps -- bigotry have every reason to be angry with president Bush II. How sad they must vent their anger on a man who did not start these wars of attribution and mutilation. Indeed, that elemental misunderstanding -- if that is what it is -- led to the election of yet an even less qualified man than Bush II to succeed President Obama.
Where did these young men learn this hate? Who told them to blame the Democrats? Who told their parents and sisters to blame the Democrats?
Or did they come to this conclusion on their own?
Tell me, who is the better man?
Senator Mitch McConnell?
Or one brave, determined, inspired survivor by the name of Lt. Cmdr. John Terry?
Where did these young men learn this hate? Who told them to blame the Democrats? Who told their parents and sisters to blame the Democrats?
Or did they come to this conclusion on their own?
Tell me, who is the better man?
Senator Mitch McConnell?
Or one brave, determined, inspired survivor by the name of Lt. Cmdr. John Terry?
1
I cannot *believe* this incredibly intelligent, compassionate, competent and dignified man will be replaced by someone like Donald Trump. We are heading, as a nation, into very dark and grim times indeed and we need the New York Times and other media to fulfill their roles as our 'fourth estate'.
330
We will miss this man very, very much.
200
Not just this man but also his wife! Ms Obama made outreach to military families one of her priorities from the beginning.
61
All I can say is for all his faults Barack Obama is a really good man. His grace, his sense of humor, his deep compassion, his humility and his deep thoughtfulness are going to be missed by the American people. Thank you Mr President for your service.
89
What faults?
4
"Eliot A. Cohen, an official in the George W. Bush administration who is now professor of strategic studies at Johns Hopkins University, said that Mr. Obama’s trips to Walter Reed may have been the reason, and that future presidents should avoid the visits."
I'm sure someone will correct me if I am wrong, but Mr. Cohen shows no battlefield experience in his bio, although he has been a reservist since 1982.
I'm sure someone will correct me if I am wrong, but Mr. Cohen shows no battlefield experience in his bio, although he has been a reservist since 1982.
143
Like most of the GOP's cadre of Hawks, Cohen never did a second's active duty nor received a minute's training. He worked in DOD, etc., wrote books about wars, air power, etc., and has a chair in academe to this day Nevertheless. he advised the non-serving Romney during the latter's unsuccessful campaign. I am not saying DOD work is unimportant or that service alone qualifies one to teach or lead. Neither Obama nor Bill Clinton actually served. But then they were not Hawks.
26
Like most of the GOP's cadre of Hawks, Cohen never did a second's active duty nor received a minute's training.
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You are completely incorrect. Cohen joined Army ROTC while in graduate school at MIT (long after there was any possibility of being drafted) and served in the Army Reserve as an intelligence officer.
http://www.advocatesforrotc.org/harvard/cohens.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eliot_A._Cohen
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You are completely incorrect. Cohen joined Army ROTC while in graduate school at MIT (long after there was any possibility of being drafted) and served in the Army Reserve as an intelligence officer.
http://www.advocatesforrotc.org/harvard/cohens.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eliot_A._Cohen
I was going to make a partisan comment, but instead decided I would just state that Barack Obama should have the thanks of the entire nation for his reluctance to commit ground troops in wars that will probably never end.
502
True. I think it takes a huge heart to see the devastation wrought onto these young bodies and the stress on their families and then decide "Hey! Why don't we use the technology of the times to make the horrible impact less on our men and women in service" That is what our president should do. Think and act on behalf of the citizenry. I am fairly sure very few of his detractors have had to send their kids into harm's way.
10
Paul, take a look at Syria. The first US soldier died just last week.
3