John McCain

John McCain was a horrible student.  He finished 894th out of 899 in his graduating class at the Naval Academy.  Of course given the trajectory of McCain's life, his political career, the universal respect of his peers and his undeniably courageous record as a prisoner during the Viet Nam war, the fact that he finished fifth from the bottom is more of an indictment of our culture's faith in grade point averages and class rankings as reliable indicators of one's potential success or usefulness to society.  

John McCain's experience as a prisoner of war is generally known.  Some have accused him of playing up the story for political gain.  I can't say wether he has done this or not.  But should he be elected to the presidency, his five year imprisonment gives me confidence that he would serve his country with integrity.  The fact that McCain was offered release and declined it so as not to demoralize his fellow prisoners and disobey the Code of Conduct, speaks volumes to me about the man's fortitude and character, even if it says nothing about his political skills and policies.  What could McCain be bribed with that he has not already denied for the sake of honor & duty?  What could McCain be threatened with that he has not already endured for his country?  

I'm not saying that character and integrity are reasons enough to elect a president.  One could certainly have character and yet be incompetent.  A president could have integrity and yet exercise it in favor of policies that are unwise.  But character and integrity aren't bad places to start, either.  Plus the dude must be tough as nails.  As it turns out, character, integrity, and fortitude don't really show up well on the academic transcript.   

Click the link to read about McCain's imprisonment in his own words.