Everyday family of Michelle Obama

After watching Michelle Obama's speak at the Democratic Convention, I was impressed by the courage and silent dignity of her father.

As his multiple sclerosis worsened, he would get up earlier and earlier to struggle to dress himself and then go to work at the water filtration plant in Chicago.

John McCain also has a father and grandfather that have lived lives of importance and meaning.

They were admirals in the U.S. Navy, and graduates of the Academy at Annapolis. Entry into the Navy requires a letter of endorsement. Most of the allocated endorsements are from the president or vice president or members of Congress.

There is a small but significant difference between the McCain men and the Robinson and Obama men.

As graduates of Annapolis nominated by the Washington elites and by Act of Congress, officers in the Navy, the McCain men, were referred to as "Sir" from there 21st birthday (receipt of commission) to the day of their death.

NCOs 35 years their senior were required to address the McCains as "Sir."

I am afraid the Obama and Robinson men were occasionally, or sadly, possibly frequently referred to as "Boy" or worse during the Jim Crow times of the '50s and early '60s.

Which family are the elitists? And which family might be more like you?

Patrick Cleary

Wheaton