Some people can sink to really low levels....Diane Aawyer asked if it was staged and the mother of the fallen soldier replied that it wasn't.

Those making such accusations should apologize to the parents of that soldier and to the courageous Iraqi woman. Anything less is disrespectful and mean-spirited.

I should point out that there is a big difference between maintaining the cynicism the way Ron Reagan, Jr. and Chris Matthews are, and momentarily thinking as John Hinderaker of PowerLine did. A really big difference.

Allow me to clarify my point. The placement of those two fine ladies together and the acknowledgment of their great and noble sacrifices at the speech was deliberate and obviously so. At no time did I state that the hug was staged and it would not make a difference to me if it was. Just because the juxtaposition was planned does not make it any less beautiful, and I thought I was clear about that in my post. I abhor cynicism and find your association my remarks with such a poor trait regrettable. I am currently typing this from a computer in Iraq with a 9mm pistol strapped to my thigh. I am here trying to make those ladies' sacrifices bear fruit. I would not be here if I were cynical.

Your Servant,

Major K.

I applaud your service, and thank you whole heartedly for your sacrifices. I'm still left with the phrase "The hug of the slain Marine's Mom and the Iraqi voter was a piece of political theatre and a typical state of the union photo-op." which certainly comes across as cynical. I guess one of the drawbacks of the internet is that the words we use lack the support of body language and facial expressions and can sometimes convey a different meaning than the author's intent. Given the cynicism displayed by others the following morning, I interpreted your comments in a similar vein to Liberal theologians who claim the Bible is complete fiction, but should be revered anyway. -- "Yes, it was staged, but meaningful nonetheless."

I see now your reference to theater and "photo-op" was meant to refer to the opportunity rather than the staging. I apologize and will offer a retraction tomorrow.

Thanks for taking the time to write. Keep it up.