acting worthy of American ideals

Robert Joseph Dole passed away this week. Coming from humble, meager beginnings, he was a phenomenal high school athlete, on his way to potentially continuing that stardom at the University of Kansas. His collegiate and athletic career, however, would be interrupted by World War II. Dole enlisted in the United States Army. Note: this blog post is not about Robert Joseph Dole.

Prior to the point of today’s post, allow us to share a brief bit more context on Bob Dole. Please put all partisan hats aside (p.s. like most times, they are not very helpful).

Engaging in combat as a second lieutenant in the Army’s 10th Mountain Division, Dole was seriously wounded near Bologna, Italy. A German shell shattered his collarbone and part of his spine. Dole initially believed his arms were no longer attached.

Inspired by the professional expertise and personal encouragement of a Chicago orthopedist, when facing a grueling, potentially physically compromised future, Dole made the decision to “focus on what I had left and what I could do with it, rather than complaining what had been lost.”

He went on to earn his law degree. He then served in politics. He represented Kansas in the U.S. House of Representatives. Then the U.S. Senate. His 27 year Senatorial career included years on the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senate Finance Committee, and even as the Senate Minority and Majority Leader. He ran for President multiple times, becoming the Republican nominee in 1996, eventually losing to then Pres. Bill Clinton. He had long career in public service.

After he passed away on Sunday, it was fascinating to hear what a bipartisan group of leaders said…

“Bob Dole dedicated his entire life to serving the American people, from his heroism in World War II to the 35 years he spent in Congress. After all he gave in the war, he didn’t have to give more. But he did. His example should inspire people today and for generations to come.” — Former Pres. Bill Clinton

“This good man represented the finest of American values. He defended them in uniform during World War II. He advanced them in the United States Senate. And he lived them out as a father, husband, and friend. — Former Pres. George W. Bush

“His sharp wit was matched only by his integrity, and he lived his life in a way that made it clear just how proud he was to be an American, and how committed he was to making this country everything he knew it could be.” — Former Pres. Barack Obama

“Bob Dole was an American war hero and true patriot for our Nation.”  — Former Pres. Donald Trump

“To me, he was also a friend whom I could look to for trusted guidance, or a humorous line at just the right moment to settle frayed nerves.” — Pres. Joe Biden

“Whatever their politics, anyone who saw Bob Dole in action had to admire his character and his profound patriotism. Those of us who were lucky to know Bob well ourselves admired him even more.” — Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)

“Bob Dole served his country with courage on the battlefield, and with dignity in the Senate. Jane and I send our condolences to his family.” — Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-VT)

“His courage and dedication to this country are an inspiration.” — Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA)

“Upon receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Senator Dole challenged us ‘not to question American ideals or replace them, but to act worthy of them.’ Senator Dole lived up to this challenge, devoting his entire life in service to the county he loved and to our cherished national values for which he fought.” — Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) 

This is only a short sampling, but I love how a bipartisan group of leaders paid tribute to the former Senator. His party affiliation did not detract from our leaders’ clearly wise instinct — that honor of others is good.

(But again, this isn’t about Bob Dole.)

Our leaders would act wiser if honor was given to all, regardless of political affiliation, right now, across the aisle, with whom they currently serve. It shouldn’t take passing away to say and do what’s right.

Respectfully…

AR