Ted Kennedy

First of all, I have got to offer my condolences to his family. Death is tragic, and I am sure he will be missed by his loved ones.

Second, less then 24 hours later, flags are flying at half-mast at the military base where I work. I commented on this while riding an elevator, and was told "Come on, he did give forty years to his country."

Lets be realistic. I don't think that forty years of paid service can be considered giving. When someone retires from the post office, or McDonalds, are they lauded for "giving" their years of service? Was Bill Gates applauded for service he "gave" to Microsoft? Public servants are unpaid, and should be applauded for their work - politicians are paid employees of the government and the people.

And while we're on this subject - lets discuss Ted Kennedy's exploits.

He was expelled twice from Harvard for cheating.

He enlisted for four years in the Army, served only two thanks to his father, never saw combat in Korea thanks to assignment in Europe, again thanks to his father, and never rose above the rank of private.

After his return to Harvard (after being expelled twice?), he was cited four times four reckless driving but never had his license revoked.

He committed manslaughter in Chappaquiddick - pure and simple. He waited seven hours to report the accident to the police, and made sure to call his lawyer before reporting the incident. For this manslaughter, he was sentenced to two suspended months.

His forty years of employment (not service) in government is relatively bland. he is remembered as a champion of workers and union rights. he also managed several bills relaxing laws on immigration. In fact the majority of his career can be summarized in his efforts to reduce or eliminate immigration controls.

I am sorrowful for his death, but I am sick already of the shameless pandering he is receiving. Lets be honest. Just once.