The idea that the side opposed to one's own is "evil" or "anti-American" is a popular, ugly one today. Certain examples do a world of good in showing the problems with that line of thought. John McCain, while not necessarily someone I support, is a hero. So is George HW Bush. On the Democratic side, I can't think of too many people who deserve the "American Hero" mantle more than Senator Daniel Inouye of Hawaii.
* At age 17, he was a medical volunteer at the Pearl Harbor attack.
* Member of the famed 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Comprised entirely of Japanese-Americans, it's the most decorated unit in the history of the US Army.
* Awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Distinguished Service Cross and Medal of Honor.
* Senator from Hawaii since 1963 (48 years)
* President pro tempore of the Senate (the highest-ranking Asian-American politician in US history).
* Second-longest serving Senator in US history (after Robert Byrd).
* Medal of Honor citation:
Second Lieutenant Daniel K. Inouye distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 21 April 1945, in the vicinity of San Terenzo, Italy. While attacking a defended ridge guarding an important road junction, Second Lieutenant Inouye skillfully directed his platoon through a hail of automatic weapon and small arms fire, in a swift enveloping movement that resulted in the capture of an artillery and mortar post and brought his men to within 40 yards of the hostile force. Emplaced in bunkers and rock formations, the enemy halted the advance with crossfire from three machine guns. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Second Lieutenant Inouye crawled up the treacherous slope to within five yards of the nearest machine gun and hurled two grenades, destroying the emplacement. Before the enemy could retaliate, he stood up and neutralized a second machine gun nest. Although wounded by a sniper’s bullet, he continued to engage other hostile positions at close range until an exploding grenade shattered his right arm. Despite the intense pain, he refused evacuation and continued to direct his platoon until enemy resistance was broken and his men were again deployed in defensive positions. In the attack, 25 enemy soldiers were killed and eight others captured. By his gallant, aggressive tactics and by his indomitable leadership, Second Lieutenant Inouye enabled his platoon to advance through formidable resistance, and was instrumental in the capture of the ridge. Second Lieutenant Inouye’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.
Inouye lost his arm in the action.
That, my friends, is a life. Damnation.
