Two Trump picks genuine heroes
Kelly, Mattis earned their bipartisan support
In just two days, a new commander in chief takes office. No matter who you voted for in this controversial election, there is reason for confidence in the national security professionals now heading toward confirmation with bipartisan support. In fact, they are the best the nation could offer when considering a fundamental demand we make upon government — maintaining safety and freedom for our families and our society.
First, there is retired Marine Gen. John F. Kelly, who has been nominated as secretary of Homeland Security. Kelly hails from Brighton and attained the rank of four-star general. He performed some of the toughest jobs in the military in a period of prolonged war. Kelly’s son lived the truth that there could be no greater demonstration of love than to “lay down his life for his friends.” He died in combat in Afghanistan.
Kelly is the only military officer of his rank to lose a child to hostile fire in Afghanistan or Iraq. He has another son who currently serves in the military as well. Kelly spoke movingly of his late son’s sacrifice when he addressed a crowd in Boston last May at the dedication of the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial in the South Boston Seaport. This is a man who knows the pain of war and the dangers the world continues to present, having managed the most complex military organizations and operations imaginable. He lost a child but will continue to fight to protect ours.
The president-elect nominated James Mattis, another retired four-star Marine general, to serve as secretary of Defense. Mattis has been nicknamed the “warrior monk,” never having married or raised a family and devoting himself totally to disciplined, selfless service on behalf of the American people. He is a man of great intelligence. Worldly and well-read, he is usually the smartest person in any room but never conducts himself as if he knows that. He is plainspoken, exhibits humility, and leads by example.
Mattis is known for his common touch, reportedly making visits to soldiers at night in their fighting positions. A friend of mine, Frances Tilney Burke, a Bostonian who worked at the Department of Defense, recently wrote of her experience assisting with a dinner that Mattis hosted for wounded soldiers being treated at a military medical center. He gave them his time, and full attention, but she also noticed that Mattis surrendered his meal and served it to one of his wounded guests who was still hungry. A small gesture, but it demonstrates that this general is not an imperious figure. Instead, he is a cerebral and empathetic man who understands service in all its forms, big and small.
After watching the confirmation hearings of Kelly and Mattis last week, it was encouraging to hear respectful words and see significant support exhibited by senators from both parties.
I’ve served on active duty and in the reserve for 23 years. In my experience, the quality of our soldiers — from the young private to the highest ranking commander — is inspiring. It is a privilege to live and work among them. The reality of their character is often more compelling than the most romanticized Hollywood portrayals. These men and women volunteer to shoulder the painful burdens that this country requires of them, sometimes for many years. Extraordinary leaders often help instill in them their uncomplaining, can-do spirit. Friday, we can all be grateful (again, no matter what your politics are) that two of the best of these leaders will answer the call again.