Posts in Category: Real Men

Obamas Obamas

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama

On - Real Men
Sarah walker talks
Michael and Sarah Walker
President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama
Loading
/

“Still Building Something Bigger”

Barack Obama didn’t come from money or power. He came from organizing neighborhoods, teaching the Constitution, and believing deeply in what ordinary people could do together. And though he made history in the White House, his legacy—along with Michelle’s—has only grown since he left it.

Before the White House: A Foundation of Service

Barack Obama began his career not in politics, but on the streets of Chicago’s South Side. With a Columbia degree in hand, he became a community organizer, helping struggling residents fight for jobs, housing, and opportunity. It wasn’t glamorous—but it was real.

Later, he graduated from Harvard Law School and became the first Black president of the Harvard Law Review. But instead of chasing prestige, he returned to Chicago—working as a civil rights attorney and teaching constitutional law at the University of Chicago.

He didn’t seek the spotlight. He sought impact. That ethic followed him through the Illinois State Senate and into the U.S. Senate, where he gained national attention with a single line:

“There is not a liberal America and a conservative America—there is the United States of America.”

Michelle Obama—Princeton and Harvard-educated—also began in corporate law but chose a different path. She left a high-paying job to work in public service, first in city government and later as the founding executive director of Chicago’s Public Allies, helping young people become leaders in their own communities.

Before becoming First Lady, she was a hospital executive developing programs that connected the University of Chicago Medical Center with underserved neighborhoods. She never needed fame. She chose purpose.

Cf44568e fe95 463e 9fb0 9260200364cd

The Presidency (2009–2017): Calm in the Storm

Barack Obama’s presidency was historic—but more than that, it was steady.

He took office during the worst economic collapse since the Great Depression. His actions helped prevent another one.

The Affordable Care Act expanded health coverage to over 20 million Americans.

The Recovery Act saved jobs and rebuilt infrastructure.

Dodd-Frank added safeguards to a reckless financial system.

He ended the war in Iraq.

He repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

He ordered the raid that killed Osama bin Laden.

But perhaps his most lasting presidential achievement was emotional:
He led with dignity, grace, and zero personal scandal—modeling what character in leadership could look like.

After the White House: Service, Not Celebrity

When they left the White House, Barack and Michelle Obama didn’t disappear—but they didn’t cling to the spotlight, either. They started building again.

The Obama Foundation

Launched to train and empower the next generation of leaders. Its key initiatives:

The Obama Presidential Center in Chicago: More than a museum—it’s a hub for activism and leadership development.

My Brother’s Keeper Alliance: Created to support boys and young men of color facing systemic barriers.

Obamas

Michelle Obama’s initiative to educate and empower girls around the world.

Higher Ground Productions

Their Netflix-based storytelling company highlights hope, resilience, and truth. Its debut, American Factory, won an Oscar for Best Documentary. Projects like Crip Camp and Waffles + Mochi mix education with cultural connection.

The Written Word

Barack’s A Promised Land and Michelle’s Becoming became publishing phenomena, offering not gossip—but depth, vulnerability, and clarity.

Their book tours and speaking engagements continue to inspire civic engagement across generations.

They Could’ve Cashed Out—They Paid It Forward Instead

There are easier paths for ex-presidents. But the Obamas didn’t take them.

No gold-plated towers. No angry rallies. No grievance campaigns.
Just libraries, documentaries, classrooms, and community centers.

“I’m inspired by the young people I meet—confident, hopeful, and unafraid to make their voices heard.”
— Barack Obama

“When they go low, we go high.”
— Michelle Obama

Barack Obama didn’t just make history. He and Michelle are still making a future—one book, one girl, one young leader at a time.

“The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something.” — Barack Obama
“Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own.” — Michelle Obama

That’s what real leadership looks like.

Ike at bastogne 768x1024 1 Ike at bastogne 768x1024 1

President Dwight D. Eisenhower – General of the Army

On - Real Men
Sarah walker talks
Michael and Sarah Walker
President Dwight D. Eisenhower - General of the Army
Loading
/

“The Commander Who Warned Us All”

Dwight D. Eisenhower wasn’t just a five-star general and two-term president—he was a builder, a unifier, and in the end, a truth-teller.

The Presidency (1953–1961): Steady Hands in Unsteady Times

As the 34th President of the United States, Eisenhower brought calm leadership to a nation caught between Cold War anxiety and rapid post-war change.

Built to Last: His Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 created the 41,000-mile Interstate Highway System—transforming commerce, defense, and daily life for generations.

Civil Rights Action: Though cautious by modern standards, he signed the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the first since Reconstruction, and sent federal troops to Little Rock to enforce desegregation—putting law above politics.

Space Age Vision: In response to Sputnik, he created NASA in 1958, launching America into the Space Race and sparking a new era of scientific achievement.

8311554c a618 4445 88ba 706169775e7e

Peace Through Strength: He ended the Korean War and adopted the “New Look” defense strategy—emphasizing deterrence, not escalation. Yet, in his farewell address, he warned Americans of a new danger: the growing influence of the “military-industrial complex.”

“Only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals.”
— Eisenhower, 1961

E9a0ab74 8ca8 4394 8936 163e2434820e

After the White House: Still Serving

Eisenhower didn’t disappear when his presidency ended—he just kept serving.

A President’s President: From his Gettysburg farm, he advised both Kennedy and Johnson, offering counsel on crises like the Bay of Pigs and Vietnam.

A Thoughtful Legacy: He authored two presidential memoirs and a personal reflection, At Ease, sharing wisdom without self-glorification.

Still a General: In a rare honor, President Kennedy restored his five-star rank after he left office—an acknowledgment that some titles transcend politics.

He Could Have Led Forever—But He Chose to Warn Us Instead

Eisenhower was a man who won wars but didn’t glorify them, built systems without seeking credit, and spoke hard truths when silence would’ve been safer.

He left us highways, a space agency, and a cautionary note we still haven’t fully heeded.

He didn’t rage or rant.
He didn’t sell hats.
He just served.

That’s what real leadership looks like.

During World War II, Dwight D. Eisenhower held several key command positions, culminating in the highest-ranking and most influential role in the Allied war effort in Europe, His rank and titles evolved as his responsibilities grew throughout the conflict.

At the time of the United States’ entry into the war in December 1941, Eisenhower was a Colonel. However, his rise through the ranks was swift. His most notable ranks and titles during World War II were:

General of the Army: This five-star rank was conferred upon Eisenhower in December 1944, making him one of a select few to hold this distinction in American history. It signified his immense authority and contribution to the war effort.

Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force (SCAEF): This was Eisenhower’s most famous and consequential title, which he held from late 1943 until the end of the war in Europe. In this capacity, he was the supreme commander of all Allied forces in the European Theater of Operations. He was responsible for planning and executing Operation Overlord, the Allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and the subsequent campaign to defeat Nazi Germany.

Prior to his appointment as SCAEF, Eisenhower also held other significant commands, including:

Commanding General, European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army (ETOUSA)
Allied Commander-in-Chief of the North African Theater of Operations

In essence, Dwight D. Eisenhower’s ultimate rank during World War II was General of the Army, and his most critical title was Supreme Commander, Allied Expeditionary Force.

 

Gettyimages 52146654 Gettyimages 52146654

President George H. W. Bush

On - Real Men
Sarah walker talks
Michael and Sarah Walker
President George H. W. Bush
Loading
/

George H. W. Bush

“The Quiet Strength of a Life Well Lived”

41st President of the United States • WWII Hero • Diplomat • Humanitarian

Before politics, before power, and long after the spotlight faded, George H. W. Bush led a life defined not by ego, but by service. In an era increasingly obsessed with celebrity and dominance, Bush represented something rare: a man who could lead without the need to be worshipped.

From Cockpit to Character

Bush enlisted in the U.S. Navy on his 18th birthday during World War II — becoming the nation’s youngest naval aviator at the time. He flew 58 combat missions, was shot down over the Pacific, and rescued by submarine. For completing his bombing run even as his plane burned, he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross.

That moment of courage wasn’t just a war story. It was a window into a life defined by duty, sacrifice, and resolve — values that remained steady through war, peace, politics, and personal tragedy.

The Businessman Who Didn’t Brag

After the war, Bush attended Yale and moved to Texas to build a life from scratch in the oil industry. He co-founded Zapata Offshore, achieving financial success quietly, without the bravado or headlines. His wealth wasn’t flaunted — it enabled him to serve, not to posture.

Service in Every Season

Bush’s rise through public service was old-school and hands-on:

  • Congressman.

  • U.N. Ambassador.

  • Envoy to China.

  • CIA Director.

  • Vice President.

He accepted each role with humility, rarely complaining, never self-promoting.

A Presidency of Prudence and Principle

As President, he navigated some of the most delicate moments in modern history:

  • Oversaw the peaceful end of the Cold War.

  • Managed the reunification of Germany.

  • Built a broad coalition to repel Saddam Hussein from Kuwait.

  • Signed the Americans with Disabilities Act.

  • Called Americans to service with his “Thousand Points of Light” — a lasting initiative that celebrated community and volunteerism over ideology.

He was mocked for being careful with his words, thoughtful in his diplomacy, and unwilling to boast. But history has grown kinder with time.

Loss, Grief, and Grace

In 1953, he and Barbara lost their daughter Robin to leukemia. It left a wound that never fully healed — but it also deepened their compassion and drove their charitable work. Later in life, his devotion to Barbara and their family stood in contrast to the performative masculinity often worshipped in politics.

Post-Presidency: The Best Years?

George bush sr

Bush’s most admired acts may have come after he left office:

  • The Letter to Clinton (1993): After losing reelection, Bush left a handwritten note in the Oval Office — gracious, hopeful, and supportive. A final act of statesmanship.

  • Bipartisan Humanitarianism:

    Teamed with Bill Clinton to raise over $100 million for global disaster relief. Their friendship became iconic — a reminder that decency can rise above party.

  • A Volunteer to the End:

    Continued parachuting into his 70s and 80s — not for headlines, but to honor his past and inspire others.

    Through the Points of Light Foundation, he kept calling Americans to serve — not a party, but each other.

George bush sr 2

Legacy Beyond Power

He lived to see his son become President — and handled both agreement and disagreement with quiet dignity. He outlived his wife by just months, and was laid to rest with her and daughter Robin, carried by the same plane he once flew into war.

Final Reflection:

George H. W. Bush may not have tweeted. He didn’t insult his rivals. He didn’t stage rallies for applause.
But he did risk his life for his country, govern with humility, admit mistakes, extend a hand to his opponents, and continue serving long after power was gone.

Quote to Frame It All:

“Any definition of a successful life must include service to others.”
— George H. W. Bush

 

John mccain was a war hero but he shouldnt have John mccain was a war hero but he shouldnt have

Senator John McCain — A Legacy of Courage, Principle, and Service

On - Real Men
Sarah walker talks
Michael and Sarah Walker
Senator John McCain — A Legacy of Courage, Principle, and Service
Loading
/

John McCain — A Legacy of Courage, Principle, and Service

John Sidney McCain III (1936–2018) was more than a U.S. Senator or presidential candidate. He was a war hero, a maverick politician, and a man defined by his service and sacrifice — qualities that set him apart in today’s politics.

Early Life and Military Service

Born into a distinguished naval family, McCain followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, both four-star admirals. Though he struggled academically, his rebellious spirit and charisma earned him the nickname “John Wayne.” He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1958 and became a naval aviator.In

1967, during the Vietnam War, McCain was shot down over Hanoi and captured. Despite severe injuries and brutal torture, he refused an early release because he insisted that fellow prisoners captured before him be freed first — a testament to his honor and loyalty. He endured over five years of imprisonment in harrowing conditions before his release in 1973.

Political Career and Leadership

After retiring from the Navy due to war injuries, McCain entered politics, serving as a U.S. Representative and then as a Senator from Arizona for more than three decades. Known as a “maverick,” he frequently defied party lines to champion campaign finance reform, immigration reform, and veterans’ issues.

His political life wasn’t without controversy — from the Keating Five scandal to his choice of Sarah Palin as a running mate — but McCain’s willingness to admit mistakes and push for ethical reform remained central to his character.

Defining Moments of Principle

McCain’s legacy is punctuated by moments that highlight his courage over convenience:

  • Crossing Party Lines: He worked across the aisle to pass important legislation and improve government integrity.
  • 2008 Concession Speech: After losing the presidential race to Barack Obama, McCain graciously urged unity and acceptance.
  • 2017 Healthcare Vote: In a dramatic Senate moment, McCain cast the decisive vote against repealing the Affordable Care Act, defying party pressure and President Trump’s demands — a bold act of independence that cost him political favor but earned widespread respect.
  • Vocal Trump Critic: McCain openly opposed many Trump policies and refused to endorse him in 2016. Their feud culminated when Trump publicly disparaged McCain’s war record.

Legacy of Service and Honor

McCain’s story is one of duty over self, endurance in the face of adversity, and standing by principles even when unpopular. His military valor, bipartisan efforts, and moral leadership make him a compelling figure in contrast to today’s divisive politics.

He passed away in 2018 after a battle with brain cancer, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by many across political divides. The John S. McCain Institute continues his work, focusing on leadership and human dignity.

Mccain

A Contrast Worth Remembering

As Trump dismissed McCain with crude remarks — including the infamous “I like people who weren’t captured” — McCain’s life embodied the highest form of service: sacrifice without complaint, honor without self-promotion, and courage under fire.

Jimmy carter Jimmy carter

President Jimmy Carter

On - Real Men
Sarah walker talks
Michael and Sarah Walker
President Jimmy Carter
Loading
/

President Jimmy Carter: The Power of Selfless Service

Jimmy Carter’s presidency (1977–1981) was marked by economic challenges and foreign policy crises, leading some to label him a “weak president.” But history tells a different story. It was after he left office that Carter’s greatness truly emerged.

This wasn’t a man chasing power, attention, or wealth. Carter devoted the rest of his life — more than four decades — to humanitarian causes, global diplomacy, and public service. He turned the quiet years after the presidency into a platform for peace, justice, and dignity.

Before the Presidency: A Foundation in Service

  • Naval Officer & Engineer: Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, serving on submarines and working under Admiral Hyman Rickover on the early nuclear fleet. He developed a reputation for discipline, intelligence, and humility.

  • Peanut Farmer: After his father’s death, Carter returned to Plains, Georgia, where he modernized and saved the family’s struggling peanut business. He understood labor, economics, and resilience from the ground up.

  • 2presidents

  • Progressive Southern Governor: As Georgia’s governor (1971–1975), Carter pushed for government reform, racial integration, better mental health systems, and environmental conservation — rare and risky stands in the South at the time.

After the Presidency: Service Over Self

The Carter Center (Founded 1982)

Created with Rosalynn Carter to promote peace, fight disease, and strengthen human rights globally.

  • Disease Eradication: The Carter Center led efforts that reduced Guinea worm disease from 3.5 million cases in 1986 to fewer than 10 in 2023. Carter once said:

    “I’d like the last guinea worm to die before I do.”

    The Center also fought river blindness, malaria, and other neglected diseases.

  • Election Monitoring: Carter personally observed over 100 elections in 39 countries — from Nicaragua to Ghana — helping ensure democratic integrity where it was fragile or new.

  • Conflict Mediation: Often working behind the scenes, Carter brokered peace talks or humanitarian access in North Korea (1994), Sudan, Ethiopia, Haiti, Bosnia, and beyond.

Habitat for Humanity

Starting in 1984, Carter became the face of Habitat for Humanity, physically helping build and repair homes in more than 14 countries.

Even into his 90s — after cancer and surgeries — he was still swinging a hammer. The annual “Carter Work Project” continues his legacy of hands-on compassion.

Author and Thought Leader

Carter wrote over 30 books, blending personal memoir, policy insight, and moral reflection. Highlights include:

  • An Hour Before Daylight (2001) – a memoir of rural life, race, and responsibility

  • Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid (2006) – a controversial but honest attempt to push for a two-state solution

  • A Call to Action (2014) – on global gender inequality and religious injustice

Moral Leadership

Carter consistently put principle before politics, even when it cost him.

  • Spoke out against U.S. human rights violations, regardless of party

  • Criticized the Southern Baptist Convention for its sexism, leaving it in protest

  • Advocated for women’s rights, democracy, and global justice

A Life Lived in Full

Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter returned to Plains, Georgia, and lived in a modest $200,000 house. No speaking tours for millions, no luxury estates. Just service.

He taught Sunday school at his local church into his 90s. When he entered hospice care in 2023, the world remembered him not just as a former president — but as a man who walked his talk for a lifetime.

Barack Obama once said:
“Jimmy Carter may be the best former president America has ever had.”