A time of reflection

According to the National Archives, Memorial Day, initially referred to as Decoration Day, was observed by many communities after the Civil War, when the nation suffered more than 620,000 military deaths, roughly 2% of the total population at the time.

John A. Logan, the Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, chose May 30, 1868, as a day to decorate the graves of Union troops across the nation.

From this beginning, Memorial Day was designated as an annual day of remembrance to honor all those who have died in service to the United States during peace and war. Veterans Day, Nov. 11, celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans.

Keeping the two holidays in proper order can be difficult. Over the years I have covered many Memorial Day and Veterans Day commemorations. Organizers, who generally have a military background, also point it out. As a young journalist, I needed that mentoring from veterans who at that time came from World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

I’ve observed those who were boastful about their service would get an unapproving sneer from others in the audience. Veterans did not mind reminiscing about their service time, but they also knew they had fellow soldiers, airmen, sailors and Marines who died in the line of duty.

I’ve always tried to set time to watch PBS’ National Memorial Day Concert, which this year was on May 24. The concert is rightfully in our nation’s capital and was hosted by actor Gary Sinise and actress Mary McCormick. Sinise, a long-time host, continues to raise awareness and funds for veterans, noting McCormick had graciously stepped in to fill in for another long-time co-host, Joe Mantegna.

The writers and producers always strike the right tone. This year included a segment and special music on the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, a day many of us will never forget.

Speakers also told of heroics by medics, firefighters, police officers, military men and women, and volunteers in the aftermath. The bloodshed and the loss of family and friends—a hurt that will never go away.

As I reflected on the first time I covered a Memorial Day event, I quickly learned war is a mixed bag. Those who attended back then would say it serves as a reminder war rarely yields the results presidents and Congress promise to families, but young men and women continue to serve, which speaks volumes about their character and patriotism.

I don’t think comments that I hear today have changed that perspective.

Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or [email protected].