WAR - What Is It Good for? Lessons from an ex-Marine Who Served.

Ed Kuehnle and his 23-year old son Eddie in the studio prior to their interview on Senior Agenda.

The same year Edwin Starr introduced us to "War" - the anti-Vietnam protest song that defined his career, Ed Kuehnle enlisted in the Marines out of a desire to serve his country and protect those threatened by communism. These days Ed and his son Eddie promote ideas in song that reflect many of the prevailing sentiments in Edwin's song from 1969.   They are also mindful to pay tribute to all of the men and women who have and continue to put their lives on the line for our country through military service.  

During the interview, Ed recalled his life-changing experiences in Vietnam with emphasis on notions of brotherhood, fear, weariness, guilt, and the compelling desire to return home.  He provided heart-warming details of his homecoming and then painful confessions of the years of struggle or aftermath that followed.  He also spoke of peace with the hope that it is achievable.  

His 23-year old son, Eddie had some insightful contributions of his own.  In fact, he offered words of kindness and wisdom that one might expect from a much older soul. He paid tribute to his father and spoke of lessons from his father including tolerance, respect, gratitude and, of course, an appreciation and love of music.  

Listen to the complete interview including performances of "Til the Last Shots Fired" and a rendition of Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On"  here.   

As we anxiously await decisions about the direction our country will be taking in response to the Syrian government's actions against their own people, this edition of Senior Agenda makes for thought-provoking discussion and reflection.  

Complete interview with Ed and Eddie Kuehnle on Senior Agenda.