WILL YOU CELEBRATE OR HONOR MEMORIAL DAY?

his Memorial Day will usher in curiosity for many.

Due to noticeable generational and political differences and a transition—even weakening of our military, as a nation, we’ll pause and evaluate our personal views of those who sacrificed their lives to ensure our freedoms.

According to the online research firm statista.com, America’s concept of patriotism has declined, with the most alarming fall-off found with millennials compared to Gen X’ers and baby boomers between 2003-2011.

A Gallup poll found that in 2002, 91 percent of respondents said they were extremely/very patriotic, with 69 percent indicating they felt very patriotic. Fast forward to 2022, these numbers dropped to 65 percent and 38 percent, respectively. Interestingly but predictably, the polling giant reported that “Republicans, conservatives, and seniors were most likely to say [they are extremely or very patriotic].” It should be noted these findings aren’t opinions but rather facts reported by a reputable research firm.

They went on to say, “A 65 percent majority are still at least ‘very proud to be an American,” but there seems to be a reduction in positive national identity, with the attrition of Independents and Republicans, which began in 2020. The pollsters noted that recent Supreme Court rulings and gun safety bills had hampered increases in national pride. Furthermore, with reports and controversy surrounding the current and previous administrations, patriotism could further splinter and suffer increasing declines through the next federal election.

Such news leaves us in a tangle of confusion and a lower, even dangerous, level of preparedness in the event of military conflict—possibly war. Fewer enlistments are being recorded, even with significant modifications in training and standards.

The origin of a day honoring fallen soldiers is attributed to Union troops who fought and died in the Civil War; however, it expanded over time. Initially referred to as Decoration Day, it turned into Memorial Day after World War II, then a nationally recognized holiday.

Acknowledging heroes and those who suffered the loss of a family member or friend are important. Disheartening is the cultural shift to commercializing a day of tribute; to lose sight or not recognize the day’s true intent, only to focus on a weekend of parties and travel dilutes the day’s meaning.

BY JAMES HOLDEN

The message we need to hear is about the ultimate sacrifice made by our armed forces and should include those unrecognized because of their secretive covert service; they, too, had vital roles in protecting the nation.

Troubling is a movement towards dismantling society, built on the backs of service people. With a focus on equality and equity for all, it’s time to speak to the problems our Veterans face; continuing to be marginalized, they account for recordhigh numbers of homelessness, inadequate healthcare, and insufficient psychiatric care. They have become street addicts, invisible to an uncomfortable public.

Memorial Day is an ideal time to stop and be thankful to those who died defending the United States and the many who are on alert, ready to do battle at a moment’s notice today. All soldiers, past and present, deserve respect and dignity from society. We should recall our service people’s gifts, the opportunity to pursue our dreams, and find success, all due to their resilience and dedication.

This year, remember our service people and their families who willingly made enormous personal sacrifices; show and share your appreciation for those in uniform—they deserve the recognition. H

Memorial Day is an ideal time to stop and be thankful to those who died defending the United States and the many who are on alert, ready to do battle at a moment’s notice today. All soldiers, past and present, deserve respect and dignity from society. We should recall our service people’s gifts, the opportunity to pursue our dreams, and find success, all due to their resilience and dedication.