Congratulations to the 39th President of the US for being recognized as an ambassador of peace by the Nobel Committee. As I look back on my own personal involvement in politics President Carter is special because he was the first Democratic Presidential Candidate I supported. He is also the last Democratic nominee I have supported. His work in facilitating Camp David Accords was the crown jewel in his foreign policy agenda. Although this ultimately cost Egyptian President Anwar Sadat his life, the political risks Carter assumed to forge peace in the Middle East were beyond just being noble. Regrettably, the Oslo Committee couldn't contain politicizing the announcement by taking a swipe at the current foreign policy objectives being pursued by the US and the UK against Iraq. When the moment in time arrives to deal forcefully with Iraq that will happen, with or without Oslo's support. Criticizing the US's role in the Middle East only belittles Carter's significance and defelcts attention away from the humble Sunday School teaching Baptist Deacon from Plains, GA. Perhaps the Oslo Committee overlooked the fact in their rush to political judgement that Carter is a proud graduate of the Naval Academy and one of the top pupils of famed Navy Admiral Hyman Rickhover, inventor of the Naval nuclear submarine. Perhaps these same zealous Norwegians selectively forget that even during the Iranian Hostage Crisis of 1979-80 the President did not, repeat did not rule out force to resolve the crisis. This decision was the basis for the honorable then Secretary of State Cyrus Vance to resign from office. While I personally do not blame Carter for the Iranian Hostage Crisis he did make one major foreign policy blunder with respect to the ownership transfer of the Panamanian Canal to Panama. Otherwise, as witnessed in his continuing activities in Habitat for Humanity, let's join in collective celebration for a deserving honoree. Hopefully the next deserving recepient will not be passed over 7 times like Carter. QED

-- Anonymous, October 11, 2002

Answers

Jimmy Carter is one of my favorites also.

However, during the Iranian crisis there was no use for the use of arms since Ronald Reagan was to assume the role of president, and had already cut a deal with Iran to hold the hostages until he assumed office.

-- Anonymous, October 11, 2002

Mary -

Do you have specific evidence about the "deal Reagan cut with Iran" to delay release of the hostages until after he assumed office? QED

-- Anonymous, October 12, 2002

Amen Brother

Thanks be to God for the little peanut farmer who's actions (including habitat for humanity)still provides for those less forutnate today. I believe this is a testimony of a Godly man who still has the faith needed today.

Bro. Bill this is a worthy tribute. Great work on your behalf Sir!

Blessings to you

-- Anonymous, October 12, 2002