John F. Kerry was born in 1943 to parents, Richard and Rosemary in Colorado. When he was still very young, the Kerrys moved back to Massachusetts to raise their family. Kerry was raised in the Catholic faith, and his parents taught him the value of service and responsibility. After he graduated from Yale, he entered the Navy. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Because of his bravery and determination, he was decorated with many service awards. He received a Silver Star, Bronze Star, and three Purple Hearts.
After experiencing war firsthand, Kerry has become an advocate for fellow veterans. He has fought long and hard for veterans' benefits, treatment of PTSD, and a bill that would further the education of soldiers that come home from the war. Fighting for his fellow men helped to catapult him into the political guru he is today.
Kerry began his career in politics when he was elected to the position of Lieutenant Governor in 1982. After serving just two years in this position, he was elected to serve in the United States Senate. Since 1984, he has been actively serving in the Senate and is currently in his fifth term. He is known within the Senate as a man with strong convictions.
From providing low-income children with health insurance to protecting our natural environment, Kerry has fought to do it all. He has taken his knowledge from childhood, faith, and service. He fights for what he believes in, and does not quit when things don't go his way. He is known as one of the most respected voices on issues like national security and international affairs.
He has helped on foreign issues, including the response to September 11, and has been a strong presence with American policy in the Middle East. He is well versed on regions like North Korea. He has helped fight the war on terrorism, and made progress with his efforts.
His attempt to run for President was unsuccessful in 2002, but the loss was not shattering. He was the Democratic nominee up against George W. Bush and lost by a very close margin. Kerry has not run again, and has been focusing his efforts on his Senate career. Right now, he is one of the more senior Senators, and is the second longest serving.
Currently, Kerry is married to his wife, Teresa. They have a blended family which includes five children and two grandchildren. |
