JFK, Obama both heroes

Lately, Chris Matthews is promoting his new book: “Jack Kennedy, elusive hero.”

JFK left us and the country an everlasting impression. Our whole family mourned his death as if one of us had died. The riderless horse during the funeral procession still haunts me.

But Chris’ comparison of JFK with Barack Obama is both unfair and a misreading of history. These are different times and circumstances. Obama is doing the best with what was handed to him. Whatever he tries to achieve, logs are thrown under his feet. The mantra is: “One term president.”

President Obama set in motion health care reform, prevented a second Great Depression, made America more secure, disposed of bin Laden and other al-Qaida operatives. Gadhsafi is dead. Not one American life was wasted in Libya. The Iraq war is ending as promised.

And the president does these things wisely and calmly without “wheeling and dealing.” There is no need to “teach” him.

Now would be a good time to remember that higher appeal to the nation: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” Both presidents are equally my heroes!

Halina Slobodow

Spokane