“That is what we call leadership.”

Pat Mattos
Minneapolis, Minnesota

I first learned of Wes Clark during the Kosovo campaign and became reacquainted with him when he was a military analyst for CNN. His insightful analysis of the situation in Iraq, and his obvious distress that we went to war under these circumstances got my attention.

I researched him further and found that we have in General Clark a man whose first concern truly is the welfare of this country.

His has an idealistic view of our country and its promise, and helps rekindle it in those who are willing to listen.

That idealism does not mean he sees the world through rose-colored glasses. Far from it. He tells us the truth, even when it goes against public opinion. That is what we call leadership.

“He looks at you as if to say 'you matter.'”

Carol Kilyanek
New York City

The more I read and learned, the more I came to realize that Wesley Clark wasn’t just a 4 Star General who actually had the courage to speak out against this war before it started, he was also a really good man, an amazing leader, someone who hoped for the world what I wanted for it, a truly selfless man who would always put the good of the country and the world ahead of his own.

The first time I met General Clark I thought, “He looks at you as if to say ‘you matter.’”

When I met him at an event attended by folks way more important than me, I remembered that impression as he stood and talked to me (I was very underdressed in black jeans and a jean jacket-obviously a “nobody” - as men in suits milled around me) and really listened to me, for the longest time, until organizers of the event urged him on to meet those more important folks, the ones who might have something to say about his political future.

“ …A man who understands the value of each and every life ”

Kathryn G.
Texas

My son decided long ago that he intended to make the military a career. He's an honors' scholar and is majoring in political science and international affairs; a kid who is a Democrat through and through and values the leadership in a military that is based on a meritocracy.

My selfish, personal reason: I would trust Wes Clark with my son's life.

Wes Clark is a man who understands the value of each and every life and what a tragedy it is to lose even one. He understands that every action he takes has consequences. Wes has used his talents, his skill and his conscience to make sure that every decision he makes guarantees the best outcome with the least cost in lives and heartache. Tirelessly, sleeplessly and with unfailing courage and unceasing care.

“He is a soldier-statesman who embodies the essence of American values…”

Ruth Benedict
Downingtown, Pennsylvania

He is genuine. Wes Clark reaches out to friends and acquaintances alike with the same warmth and kindness and revels in it. His personality is absent of conceit and phony veneer but filled with a genuine love of life and the challenges it presents. Wes Clark could be your next-door neighbor or your next president, but he remains true to himself and his values. His eyes reveal the sincerity in his soul.

He is human. Wes Clark can display an extraordinary spectrum of human emotion. He can share a hearty laugh in good company, share concerns over a cold beer, or shed tears over a tragic event. His fluid intelligence and understanding of the human condition allow him to formulate a candid and appropriate response in any situation.

“A true patriot”

Rachel Fox
Portland, Oregon

After September 11th, I rallied behind my President and my government. Unfortunately, I lost belief in the Bush administration soon after and started to question their responses. I'm called a "Security Mom", mother of two young children.

Reading and hearing Wesley Clark's words in print and on television brought a reality to me that I hadn't heard before. I became very involved in my community; I would have never expected I’d respond this way. All of a sudden I was organizing my state for Democrats, energizing people to get out and vote.

I traveled to rural communities to speak about progressive candidates and how important it is for us to wake up and be true to our constitution and hold our government accountable. I am proud to support Wesley Clark because he is a true patriot.