John Kerry's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of John Kerry.

John Kerry is an American politician and diplomat, notable for his long career in public service. He served as Secretary of State under President Barack Obama, as a U.S. Senator representing Massachusetts for nearly three decades, and as the first U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate. He was the Democratic presidential nominee in 2004, ultimately losing to George W. Bush. Kerry's career has focused on foreign policy, environmental issues, and domestic politics.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

March 1965: Won the Ten Eyck Prize

In March 1965, John Kerry won the Ten Eyck prize as the best orator in the junior class for a speech that was critical of U.S. foreign policy.

December 3, 1968: Shrapnel Wound and First Purple Heart Medal

On December 3, 1968, while in charge of a small boat near Cam Ranh Bay, John Kerry and his crew engaged a group of Vietnamese men unloading sampans. During the encounter, Kerry sustained a shrapnel wound in his left arm, leading to him receiving his first Purple Heart Medal.

February 20, 1969: Second Purple Heart

On February 20, 1969, on the Bồ Đề River, John Kerry received his second Purple Heart after being wounded by shrapnel in his left leg when his boat was hit by a B-40 rocket.

February 28, 1969: Awarded Silver Star Medal

On February 28, 1969, John Kerry was awarded the Silver Star Medal for his actions on the Duong Keo River, where he directed units to charge Viet Cong positions, coordinated the insertion of South Vietnamese troops, and personally pursued and killed a Viet Cong insurgent armed with a rocket launcher.

1970: Kerry Wins Primary

Kerry won the primary election with 20,771 votes in 1970.

1982: Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts

In 1982, John Kerry was elected as the 66th Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts.

1984: Election to the United States Senate

In 1984, John Kerry was elected to the United States Senate.

1996: Kerry Wins Re-election Against Weld

In 1996, Kerry faced a challenging re-election campaign against Governor William Weld, ultimately winning with 52% of the vote.

2003: Diagnosis and Treatment for Prostate Cancer

In 2003, John Kerry was diagnosed with prostate cancer and successfully treated.

February 3, 2004: Victory in Iowa Caucuses

On February 3, 2004, John Kerry's victory in the Iowa caucuses revived his campaign in New Hampshire and other primary states.

2011: Global Generation Award Winner

In 2011, John Kerry was honored with the Global Generation Award by the Millennium Campus Network for being a role model for campus leaders and a strong advocate for global development.