Memorial Day, 2013

This cartoon came in an email today, one of a series of cartoons focusing attention on Memorial Day.

I saw a discussion on the web a few days ago claiming that the "new" meaning of Memorial Day had turned it into a general day for honoring those who have died, not just those who served this great country. That is just plain wrong!. Here is a quote from the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter, 74th Secretary of the Navy

Originally called Decoration Day, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for
those who have died in our nation's service. It was first observed on May
30, 1868, when flowers were placed on Union and Confederate Soldiers graves
in Arlington National Cemetery. Ever since, Americans have set aside a day
in May to observe Memorial Day and pay tribute to those who made the
ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great nation.

In December of 2000, the "National Moment of Remembrance" Resolution was
passed, reminding Americans of the true purpose of this day of reflection.
The resolution asks all Americans "to voluntarily and informally observe in
their own way a moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever
they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to Taps" at 3:00 p.m.
local time. This year, as we reflect on the achievements and sacrifices of
all who have served, I encourage you to remember and honor all those who
have lost their lives defending this nation's ideals of freedom and
democracy, not for just a moment, but rather throughout the day. We owe
them a debt of gratitude for preserving the blessings of liberty that we
claim as our birthright.

I did serve, and I grew up hearing many who survived this nation's wars speak of those who did not survive. Out of respect for those fallen soldiers, I observe Memorial Day with the respect due to the real heroes of this nation. They deserve nothing less!

Roie R. Black Major, USAF (Retired)