Putting Memorial Day in proper perspective

Published May 24, 2015

Editorial by Greenville Daily Reflector, May 23, 2015.

As Americans honor on this Memorial Day those who died for freedom, many will pay their respects more by exercising that freedom than by pausing to remember the men and women who paid the price for it. For those Americans who have served or still serve in the military, the thought that Memorial Day is largely seen as the official start to summer fun can be disheartening and depressing.

Having relatives or close friends who have died in military service naturally brings a deeper focus to the meaning of Memorial Day. But even without that natural perspective, one does not have to look far to find the proper lens for viewing this holiday. Just talk to any veteran about it.

It could be that the significance of Memorial Day is diminished among recent generations because an all-volunteer military leaves the depth of war sacrifice less broadly felt. Those who choose to wear the nation’s uniform do so knowing the risk that comes with defending the United States. We recognize that commitment on Veteran’s Day, but we can express that same honor and thanks on Memorial Day by asking a veteran or service member what this holiday means to them.

The answer might be similar to a story written by Marine Corps veteran Jennie Haskamp and published Friday in the Washington Post with the headline, “I’m a veteran and I hate ‘Happy Memorial Day.’ Here’s why.”

Haskamp, who continued working for the Corps as a civilian after leaving active duty in 2006 out of loyalty to those still deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan, has some pointed words for Americans who do not place Memorial Day in the proper perspective. She quotes the official 1868 proclamation for the holiday, originally called Decoration Day, which states that its purpose is “strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country…”

“It’s not Veteran’s Day,” Haskamp writes. “It’s not military appreciation day. Don’t thank me for my service. Please don’t thank me for my service. It’s take the time to pay homage to the men and women who died while wearing the cloth of this nation you’re so freely enjoying today, day.”

Haskamp’s story — http://tinyurl.com/kg3mhs4 — should be required reading. She obviously takes Memorial Day personally, and so should every American.

http://www.reflector.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-memorial-day-meaning-2888567