Veterans Chronicle Memorial Day May 2024

VETERANS CHRONICLE

Memorial Day takes place May 27, one of the country’s most solemn holidays.

VETERANS CHRONICLE

VETERANS

Don Walker

Bryan Bledsoe

MANAGING EDITOR

Joe Butler

ART DIRECTOR

Anne Potter

DIRECTOR OF SALES

Scott Baumbach

IN THIS ISSUE

MEMORIAL DAY’S ROOTS BEGAN AFTER CIVIL WAR

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day to remember those who have died in our nation's service. After the Civil War, many in the North and South decorated graves of fallen soldiers with flowers.

In the spring of 1866, Henry C. Welles, a druggist in the village of Waterloo, N.Y., suggested that the patriots who had died in the Civil War should be honored by decorating their graves.

Gen. John B. Murray, Seneca County

Clerk, embraced the idea and a committee was formed to plan a day devoted to honoring the dead. Townspeople made wreaths, crosses and bouquets for each veteran's grave. The village was decorated with flags at half staff.

On May 5 of that year, a processional was held to the town's cemeteries, led by veterans. The town observed this day of remembrance on May 5 of the following year as well.

Decoration Day was officially pro-

claimed on May 5, 1868, by Gen. John Logan in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed officially on May 30, 1868. The South did not observe Decoration Day, preferring to honor their dead on separate days until after World War I.

In 1882, the name was changed to Memorial Day, and soldiers who had died in other wars were also honored.

In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday to be held on the last

Monday in May. Today, Memorial Day marks the unofficial beginning of the summer season in the United States. It is still a time to remember those who have passed on, whether in war or otherwise. It also is a time for families to get together for picnics, ball games, and other early summer activities.

Thanks to the Idaho Division of Veteran Services for providing this info in its April 2021 Bulletin.

Hey veterans, DID YOU KNOW … ?

... The VA doesn’t pay for funerals or cremations

The only thing that is free of charge is burial or interment at a state or national veterans cemetery (spouses are $300). Veterans that qualify must either be cremated or in a casket and the VA pays for neither. They do not pay for caskets, embalming, cremation, urns, memorial or funeral services.

For those veterans who do qualify for VA death benefits, there is a partial reimbursement after the fact. The amounts provided are a fraction of actual costs in most cases.

To learn more, contact Kellie Richardson by email at KellieR91@yahoo.com or by phone at (509) 714-7482.

... Phone services available for all questions, needs

Coaching Into Care isn’t a crisis line, but does partner with the Veterans Crisis Line or 988 and press 1. If you are a veteran or calling about a veteran, the Veterans Crisis Line puts you in touch with VA-trained responders. Part of its capability is to engage with police and active rescue if necessary. They can put you in touch with Suicide Prevention Coordinators at your local VA if you wish.

For more information go to VeteransHelpnet.com and see the “How Can I Get Help?” section on this page or contact Spokane County Regional Veterans Service Center at (509) 477-3609.

HOW CAN I GET HELP?

Northwest.

GO ONLINE

VA.gov

The Department of Veterans Affairs website has resources on every topic relevant to veterans.

VA.gov/welcome-kit

The VA Welcome Guide covers all types of benefits and services available for veterans, new recruits, active service members and their families.

Explore.VA.gov/benefitsnavigator

Explore VA benefits and discover which ones you and your family may be eligible to receive.

IN PERSON

Spokane County Regional Veteran Service

1117 N. Evergreen Rd., Spokane Valley, WA (509) 477-3690

Apply for emergency services, or have any benefits or service questions answered by 5 Veteran Service Officers (VSO) and staff.

Kootenai County Veteran Services and Benefits Office

120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092

Meet with a VSO or staff for help with VA benefits enrollment, claims or other veteran needs.

Goodwill Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)

130 E. Third Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 828-2449

SSVF helps homeless veterans and their families find housing and connects veterans with other support organizations.

Healthcare for Homeless Veterans (HCHV)

504 E. Second Ave., Spokane, WA (509) 435-2019

Provides healthcare and outreach for housing, job opportunities and counseling.

BY PHONE

Spokane County Regional Veteran Service (509) 477-3690

Kootenai County Veteran Services and Benefits Office

120 E. Railroad Ave., Post Falls, ID (208) 446-1092

Veteran Crisis Line 1 (800) 273-8255, press 1

North Idaho Crisis Center (208) 625-4884

Washington or Idaho 2-1-1 Dial “2-1-1” for health and human resources referrals.

LOCAL VETERAN SPOTLIGHT: SPFC 5 GARY TAYLOR

If you’ve visited Spokane County Regional Veteran Service Center, you may have noticed a large portrait of local veteran, SPFC 5 Gary Taylor. Growing up on a farm in Idaho and not knowing anything about the military, he figured he could hack anything for a short time and joined the Marines in 1961.

Shortly after boot camp, he switched to the Army which allowed him to expand his studies to finance and accounting.

As an Army Security and Intelligence specialist, he soon found his way, via

ship, to Hawaii, Japan, Philippines, en route to Saigon, in 1962.

His Signal Intel job located enemy positions to pass on to the military and DC. Upon his return to the states in 1964, he was stationed at the USO in D.C., where he was “discovered” and asked to sit for a promotional artist who spent 400 hours on the painting which now is hanging in the computer work center.

In 1965, Gary joined the National Guard at Klamath Falls serving in the infantry and air defense. He donated the art to the

center in the hopes that, "it allows others to enjoy the piece long after he departs." You’ll often seen Gary at the service center,

building relationships with veterans on his visits.

Chad Kubik

NMLS# 609985

Residential Loan Officer

509-227-5449

Laura McGuigan NMLS# 141693

Residential Loan Officer 509-332-1561

Marcy Bennett NMLS# 507122

Residential Loan Officer 509-227-5461

His philosophy is, “Never quit learning. Listen to other vets and you may see things you never thought of or learn something new. You’re never too old to learn.”

With each veteran he meets, he shares that a group of about 15 vets gather for breakfast, 9 a.m. Mondays, at the Stupid Cow Café on Sprague. All vets are welcome; they talk about everything in life, and there’s always a seat open for a new friend.

If you visit the center Thursday mornings, you may get to see Gary and his dog Oreo enjoying the calming waterfall. Feel free to visit, it'll be a great start to your day!

Lisa Knight NMLS# 785378

Residential Loan Officer 619-206-7019

Monica Lay NMLS# 720624

Residential Loan Officer 509-435-5639

Pete Loeun NMLS# 409746

Residential Loan Officer 714-222-8261

COURTESY OF SPOKANE COUNTY REGIONAL VETERAN SERVICES NEWSLETTER

Toxic exposure screening: Myths and facts

There’s plenty of misinformation out there

The VA launched toxic exposure screening nationwide in 2022 as part of the PACT Act. Since then, millions of veterans have had their screening. But there are still many misconceptions about what it is. Let’s start with the basics.

What is the toxic exposure screening?

The screening typically happens during routine health care appointments. It only takes an average of 5-10 minutes. You and a VA clinician will talk about toxic exposures you may have had during your military service. The clinician may connect you to more support and resources if you answer “yes.”

If you’re enrolled in VA health care, you’ll receive the screening at least once every five years. If you’re unsure if exposures happened, your care team will offer the screening every year. This allows them to ensure your health hasn’t been affected.

During your military service, you may have experienced several types of possible exposures. These include open burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, and others. To see more, visit www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/index.asp to learn more about known potential exposures. Now let’s talk about some common misconceptions, or myths, about the screening.

Myth or Fact?

Here are some common myths around the screening and the facts to debunk them.

Myth #1: The toxic exposure screening is a comprehensive exam.

Fact #1: Getting your screening starts a conversation about your exposure concerns. This way your health care team can consider any future symptoms alongside your exposure history. No diagnostic tests or physical exams happen as part of the screening. Still, discussing potential exposures may lead to early diagnosis of exposure-related conditions.

Myth #2: Getting a toxic exposure screening could change your VA disability compensation.

Fact #2: The screening doesn’t play a role in determining VA disability rating or compensation. Suppose you report an exposure during your screening. You’ll be offered information about related benefits, registry exams, and clinical resources. You’ll also get information on how

to file a claim.

Myth #3: The toxic exposure screening provides legal and medical verification of exposure.

Fact #3: You won’t receive any legal or medical verification of exposure as part of the screening. However, your response will be added to your VA medical record. Exposure concerns will then be included as a key part of your care across your lifetime. This is called exposure-informed care.

Myth #4: The screening is only for older veterans.

Fact #4: The screening is for all veterans enrolled in VA health care regardless of age. If you’re not enrolled, apply at www. va.gov/health-care/apply/ application/introduction

Myth #5: You don’t need the screening if you’ve already joined a VA

environmental health registry.

Fact #5: The toxic exposure screening isn’t part of VA’s environmental health registries. And it doesn’t serve as a registry evaluation

Myth #6: You don’t need to get your toxic exposure screening if you’re already service-connected.

Fact #6: No matter your service-connection status, the screening helps make your exposure concerns a focus of your health care. This allows your health care team to provide exposure-informed care throughout your lifetime. You can ask about the toxic exposure screening at your next VA health care appointment. If you don’t have an upcoming appointment, you can use secure messaging to request a screening. For more information about the PACT Act, visit VA.gov/PACT.

FALLEN HEROES PROJECT MAKES SURE NO ONE IS FORGOTTEN

By Keirsten Lyons

WASHINGTON STATE FALLEN HEROES PROJECT

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project honors post-9/11 fallen service members from Washington and North Idaho who raised their hand to serve.

It was founded in 2007 when Marine Cpl. Darrel Morris of Spokane Valley was killed by an IED in Iraq. His mom, Kim Cole, needed to make sure her son was not forgotten. She had a large banner made for him and took it to an event for Gold Star/ surviving families.

The idea caught on, and soon more and more families were requesting banners of their own heroes. In 2014, Kim and a group of other Gold Star families officially created the WA State Fallen Heroes Project and became a 501(c)3.

Though Kim has retired, the Project continues and now has over 385 banners of post-9/11 fallen heroes who died in service or as a result of their service.

The banners are carried in parades and posted at businesses and events across the state each year, reminding us that freedom comes at a cost, and these are the men and women who have willingly raised their hands to pay it.

In addition to banners, in 2015, the Project worked with the City of Spokane, Spokane Arts, designer Kathy Swehla and Land Expressions to build the Illuminating Courage Memorial. It is located on the south side of the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena, and honors post-9/11 fallen along with all who have served.

Granite plaques in the interior hold the names of our fallen, while engraved pavers surround the Memorial, honoring those who have served. These pavers are available for anyone to purchase and make great gifts for veterans. They are placed at the Memorial’s Walk of Remembrance twice a year.

Illuminating Courage has fulfilled the vision that it would ‘soar skyward, to uplift the heart and strengthen the spir-

it; a beacon of light, illuminating the stories of loved ones lost while serving our country.’ It is definitely a beacon of light to surviving families and so many more, giving a place to gather, to remember, and to share stories.

The public is invited to do just that this Memorial Day as

See HEROES, 9

The Hero Boots display along the Walk of Remembrance in Spokane is one place to remember those we’ve lost. This will take place Memorial Day Weekend.

HEROES

Continued from 8

Fallen Heroes hosts the second Hero Boots display, a very moving tribute along the Memorial’s Walk of Remembrance.

March for the Fallen registration opens Memorial Day weekend as well, and there will be a special incentive at the Hero Boot display.

The March is a ruck, run or walk honoring post-9/11 fallen, held on the Saturday closest to 9/11. This year marks the 10th annual March, and participants can choose from a timed 5, 10 or 15.6k route through Riverside State Park, flanked by Fallen Hero banners and the beautiful Spokane River. It will be held September 14,, and registration can be found at runsignup.com/ Race/WA/NineMileFalls/ MarchfortheFallen

March for the Fallen honors the fallen, raises funds to support their families, and builds camaraderie within the community. It’s a full-day event with military static displays, resource providers, a free bbq, backyard games, a climbing wall, raffle and much more.

But first, it’s gardening season! In partnership with the Spokane Vet Center, the WA State Fallen Heroes Project maintains the Heroes Garden, a therapy garden for veterans and Gold Star/surviving families.

There’s something very powerful about the Heroes Garden. From the inspired, veteran-fabricated gates that welcome you in, to the 22 Too Many sitting area, the sweat lodge, the adoptable raised beds and quiet nooks for contemplation, therapy, or shared stories, there’s something for everyone here. Not to mention the very powerful healing that can come

from getting your hands in the earth and nurturing growth with grief.

It's one of our favorite spaces: a place of respite, where food is grown alongside relationship. We encourage weeders, planters, harvesters and helpers with all the experience or no experience to join us on Fridays, May–October.

We’re so thankful for our supporters, for all the places around town that host banners each month, and especially for our Gold Star/surviving families.

Memorial Day is every day for these families. Their pride and pain are ever-present, yet they bear the burden of loss with such grace, coming alongside others in understanding, support, and acceptance. They are our

surviving heroes.

If you or someone you know is a surviving family member of a post-9/11 service member and we don’t yet have a banner for your Hero, please reach out. We’d love to connect.

For information about volunteering, purchasing pavers, visiting the Heroes Garden, requesting banners for an event or just learning more, please email us at HonoringHeroes@wafhp.org or visit us on Facebook. We love to share what we do in fulfilling our mission to honor our fallen, support their families, and engage our communities in doing both.

Heroes aren’t forgotten until their names are no longer spoken … and that won’t happen on our watch.

STARS & STRIPES

Fallen Heroes, like Spc. Jarrod Lallier, are represented in parades and other community functions.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Vanessa and Eleanor Easley. Vanessa is a Gold Star sister. Her brother SSG Jonathan Weekly, U.S. Army, is one of the Fallen Heroes.

VETERANS CHRONICLE

Community Partner shout-out: Vet Center at Mirabeau

Often confused with Spokane County Regional Veterans Service Center, the Vet Center on Mirabeau offers community-based counseling for a wide range of social and psychological services including professional readjustment counseling to veterans, active duty servicemembers (including members of the National Guard and Reserve components) and Gold Star families.

Back in the late 1970s, it became evident that Vietnam veterans required specialized care and support. This led to the grassroots establishment of local Vet Centers, serving as safe havens where veterans could access social services ad-

dressing homelessness. Following a successful trial period from 1979-1981, Congress officially integrated Vet Centers into the VA in 1981.

Over the years, Vet Centers evolved from community gathering spaces to clinical counseling settings, meeting the evolving needs of veterans. Their services expanded to include mental health support for combat veterans, MST survivors, and even Coast Guard members involved in counter drug operations.

Recognizing the need for outreach, mobile Vet Centers were introduced in 2006, expanding their reach to rural areas. With 300 centers across the U.S.

and Territories, including 83 mobile units, they ensure accessibility to veterans wherever they may be.

The Spokane Vet Center is the second largest in the country, covering four states and 35 counties. During COVID, center officials found new ways to get around physical restrictions giving them the ability to provide support for veterans anywhere in the world.

What sets Vet Centers apart is their flexibility. Each center operates based on the unique needs of its community, providing a safe and comfortable environment for veterans. Services range from individual and family counseling to group sessions, mindful-

ness activities, and retreats.

The Mirabeau Vet Center goes beyond counseling, offering initiatives like the Hero’s Garden, providing both therapeutic benefits and community support through food production.

Privacy is paramount. The centers offer fully confidential counseling and only share information with outside agencies under subpoena or with member permission. As mental health issues are more openly recognized today, centers are beginning to define where mental stressors in everyday service are affecting servicemembers. Those needing help in managing those stressors and self-care sup-

port are welcome and offered confidentiality.

If you are in crisis, the Vet Center on Mirabeau is there for immediate, walkin support, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Amidst a national shortage of mental health providers, the center is here to help veterans navigate life after service, providing personal wellbeing, care, and readjustment counseling.

This description came from the Spokane County Regional Veteran Services Newsletter, April 2024. For Vet Center contact information and other veteran help resources see the “How Can I Get Help?” section on Page 5.

Free women veterans’ conference

Women veterans throughout the area are invited to a free conference in June.

The Washington Department of Veterans Affairs and the Women Veterans Advisory Committee are organizing the Women Veterans’ Conference at the Yakima Convention Center June 8.

It includes seminars, a trade show, workshops and other useful presentations. The trade show runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There will also be a Sneaker Ball from 7-9 p.m. To learn more, please email womenveterans@dva. wa.gov.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MEMORIAL DAY

By Wes Anderson VETERAN HELP NET CORRESPONDENT

“They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Days shall not worry them, nor the years condemn them. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.”

It is for good reason that we gather together on Memorial Day with countless other Americans across the nation, and across the world. We gather in unified and solemn remembrance to honor the sacrifices of those who answered their nation’s call, and who willingly laid down their life for our freedoms.

The men and women of America’s Armed Forces who have sacrificed and given everything they have … including their very lives, for our safety and the freedoms we enjoy.

This Memorial Day, as we join together, whether it is face to face or if only in mind and spirit, we remember their names, their faces, and their service legacy so that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

As we take this day to give thanks to them and quietly contemplate their ultimate sacrifice, we realize how markedly inadequate our attempt really is to pay tribute to them.

There are no words that can properly reflect the magnitude of what they accomplished. But, as we enjoy our way of life in the land of the free, and the home of the brave, we can commit ourselves to diligently reminding present and future generations of Americans that there is no freedom without bravery, and those we honor today were brave when it counted the most.

Our intent today is not to speak of the glory of battle or to pay homage to heroes or icons, but rather to reflect on the person behind the deed and remember all of our fallen brothers and sisters-in-arms for what they actually were: people just like us. Equally, they held true to the values upon which this great land was founded and shared a common belief in freedom, justice, and liberty.

They were our fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, sons, daughters, and friends. Do you remember them? The next-door neighbors and the kids who lived down the block … they were the high school quarterbacks, cheerleaders, and class clowns. Some of them were teachers, police, firefighters, plumbers, and physicians. From every race, creed, and color, they came from every corner of our great nation and from other countries as well. Together they defended, protected, and advanced the cause of freedom.

They were different in many ways, yet somehow all the same; they were unified in spirit and united in purpose and mission. The men and women who we honor today were no better or worse than any of us. While protecting our nation, they did not choose the events of the world and the circumstances into which they were thrust; rather the circumstances and events of the world chose them.

Generation after generation has been fortunate enough to reap the benefits paid for by those who believe that freedom is worth fighting for and, if necessary, dying for.

In cemeteries across America and around the world today, people will

pause to spread flowers on the graves of those lost in war. But today should not be about the sorrow we feel at their loss, and not about mourning. I ask that today you not accept feelings of grief or affliction, rather the feeling of honor, patriotism, and pride. It is said that where one story ends another begins. Though their lives were cut short, our absent comrades have ensured that the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution is applied equally and holds true for everyone, some of whom may not have otherwise been entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Memorial Day is a rare day of opportunity to give thanks for all we have been blessed with. Even though the significance of this day becomes at times confused or distorted, and the true meaning is sometimes lost to commercialism or drowned in forgetful indulgence, those of us who are here today recognize the magnitude of the accomplishment and the deeds of the men and women who helped to the idea that evil, and tyranny must not, and will not prevail.

The courage possessed by the men and women who we are honoring today is something that cannot be taught. Their willingness to put country first is what truly makes America the home of the brave, and that is what this very special day is all about … being thankful that such brave men and women have lived, and to pay tribute to those heroic patriots who bravely rose up and fought for something greater than themselves, protecting a home to which they never returned. No matter how different

these soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen, and Coast Guardsmen are from one another, one thing remains the same: This is the land of freedom and of liberty. History and experience have provided the undisputable truth it is the home of the brave. America will always be home, and a home worth dying for.

Today, we do more than just carry on a tradition dating back to 1866, when the first formal Memorial Day observances were conducted. We go beyond tradition, beyond remembering and beyond mourning; today, we work together to make this the country they died for – building a better nation each and every day.

In closing I am reminded of a quote from Arron Sokalian: Every time we think we have measured our capacity to meet a challenge, we look up and we are reminded that that capacity may well be limitless. this is a time for American heroes. We will do what is hard. We will achieve what is great. This is a time for American heroes, and we reach for the stars.”

VETERANS CHRONICLE

Volunteering to support military veterans has invaluable impact

(Editor’s note: This marketing piece was created using the ChatGPT service)

Volunteering to aid military veterans isn't just an act of kindness; it's a profound demonstration of gratitude and solidarity. These individuals have dedicated their lives to serving their country, often facing unimaginable challenges and sacrifices in the process. As they transition back to civilian life, they may encounter various hurdles, from physical injuries to psychological trauma and the daunting task of reintegrating into society.

Volunteers play a pivotal role in easing this transition, offering crucial support and resources that can make a world of difference. Whether it's providing companionship, assisting with job searches, offering counseling services, or simply lending a listening ear, volunteers contribute invaluable time and effort to improve the lives of those who have served.

One significant aspect of volunteering is the sense of community it

fosters. By engaging with veterans and their families, volunteers create a network of support that extends far beyond practical assistance. They forge bonds built on empathy and shared experiences, offering a sense of belonging that can be immensely comforting for individuals navigating the complexities of post-military life.

Moreover, volunteering provides an opportunity for civilians to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges veterans face. By actively participating in initiatives aimed at supporting this community, volunteers not only offer assistance but also raise awareness about the issues affecting veterans. This increased awareness can lead to greater empathy and advocacy, ultimately driving positive societal change. Volunteering also offers numerous personal benefits for those who choose to dedicate their time to this cause. It provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment, allowing individuals to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Moreover,

volunteers often develop new skills, expand their social networks, and gain a broader perspective on life through their interactions with veterans.

In addition to the direct benefits for veterans and volunteers, the ripple effects of volunteering extend to society as a whole. By empowering veterans to overcome challenges and pursue fulfilling lives, volunteers contribute to building stronger, more resilient communities. They embody the values of compassion and solidarity, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference.

In conclusion, the value of volunteering to support military veterans cannot be overstated. It is a testament to the power of human connection and collective action in creating positive change. By lending a helping hand and standing in solidarity with those who have served, volunteers embody the true spirit of gratitude and service. Their efforts not only enrich the lives of veterans but also strengthen the fabric of society, one act of kindness at a time.

Looking for a place to volunteer? Contact one of the organizations listed in the “How Can I Get

Help?” section on Page 5. Do you know of a veteran organization or group that needs volunteers? Let us

know and we will help get the word out by sending information to Don@ vethelpnet.com.

Poem: ‘A Soldier Died Today’

By A. Lawrence Vaincourt

Just a Common Soldier (A Soldier Died Today)

He was getting old and paunchy and his hair was falling fast,

And he sat around the Legion, telling stories of the past.

Of a war that he had fought in and the deeds that he had done,

In his exploits with his buddies; they were heroes, every one.

And tho’ sometimes, to his neighbors, his tales became a joke,

All his Legion buddies listened, for they knew whereof he spoke.

But we’ll hear his tales no longer for old Bill has passed away,

And the world’s a little poorer, for a soldier died today.

He will not be mourned by many, just his children and his wife,

For he lived an ordinary and quite uneventful life.

Held a job and raised a family, quietly going his own way,

And the world won’t note his passing, though a soldier died today.

When politicians leave this earth, their bodies lie in state,

While thousands note their passing and proclaim that they were great.

Papers tell their whole life stories, from the time that they were young,

But the passing of a soldier goes unnoticed and unsung. Is the greatest contribution to the welfare of our land

A guy who breaks his promises and cons his fellow man?

The piece was published in 1987 and written by A. Lawrence Vaincourt. He was born in upstate New York in 1923 to French-Canadian parents and raised in a farming community in southeastern Quebec. Vaincourt enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force when he was about 17 and was stationed in England as an aircraft mechanic toward the end of World War II. After the war, he moved to Montreal, where he met his future wife. They eventually settled in Deux-Montagnes, a Montreal suburb, and had five sons. At home he almost never spoke about the war, said his son Randy Vancourt. The poem was previously published in “Star” in 2014.

Or the ordinary fellow who, in times of war and strife, Goes off to serve his Country and offers up his life?

A politician’s stipend and the style in which he lives

Are sometimes disproportionate to the service that he gives.

While the ordinary soldier, who offered up his all, Is paid off with a medal and perhaps, a pension small.

It’s so easy to forget them for it was so long ago,

That the old Bills of our Country went to battle, but we know

It was not the politicians, with their compromise and ploys,

Who won for us the freedom that our Country now enjoys.

Should you find yourself in danger, with your enemies at hand,

Would you want a politician with his ever-shifting stand?

Or would you prefer a soldier, who has sworn to defend

His home, his kin and Country and would fight until the end?

He was just a common soldier and his ranks are growing thin,

But his presence should remind us we may need his like again.

For when countries are in conflict, then we find the soldier’s part Is to clean up all the troubles that the politicians start.

If we cannot do him honor while he’s here to hear the praise,

Then at least let’s give him homage at the ending of his days. Perhaps just a simple headline in a paper that would say,

Our Country is in mourning, for a soldier died today.

VETERANS CHRONICLE

CUSTOMS OF MILITARY FUNERALS

Draping the casket with the national flag

This custom began during the Napoleonic Wars (1796-1815). The dead were covered with flags and carried from the field of battle on a caisson. When the U.S. flag covers the casket, it is placed so the union blue field is at the head and over the left shoulder. It is not placed in the grave and is not allowed to touch the ground.

Flags

Flags are provided for burial services of service members and veterans. The flag for one who dies on active duty is provided by one's branch of service. Flags for other veterans are provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs. The flag is presented to the next of kin at the end of the funeral. If there is no next of kin present, the flag may be presented to another family representative or a close friend of the veteran.

Firing cannon salutes

The custom of firing cannon salutes originated in the British Navy. When a cannon was fired, it partially disarmed the ship. Therefore, firing a cannon in salute symbolizes respect and trust.

Firing three rifle volleys over the grave

Military funeral honors may include the firing of three rifle volleys over the grave during interment. The president of the United States, as commander-in-chief of the country's armed forces, is authorized this honor. The firing of three vol-

leys over the grave of a fallen warrior has its origin in the old custom of halting the fighting to remove the dead from the battlefield.

Once the dead were removed, three-musket volleys were fired as a signal that the battle could resume. A firing party of seven service members traditionally fires the volleys. The fact that a firing party might consist of seven service members firing three volleys does not constitute a 21-gun salute.

It has also been suggested that the custom may have deeper roots. In Roman customs, mourners would cast dirt on the coffin three times and this constituted a burial. They would also call the deceased by name three times and upon departure

say farewell three times.

21-gun salute

All personal salutes may be traced to the prevailing use in earlier days to ensure that the saluter placed himself in an unarmed position. Salute by gunfire is a most-ancient ceremony. The British compelled weaker nations to make the first salute, but in time international practice compelled "Gun for Gun" in the principle of an equality of nations.

In the earliest days, seven guns was a recognized British National Salute. Those early regulations stated that, although a ship could fire only seven guns, the forts could fire for honors three shots to one shot afloat. In that day powder of sodium nitrate was easier to keep on

shore than at sea. In time, when the quality of gun powder improved by the use of potassium nitrate, the sea salute was made equal to the shore salute - 21 guns as the highest national honor. Although for a period of time, monarchies received more gun than republics, eventually republics claimed equality. Beginning in our colonial period, the United States fired one shot for each state in the Union. This was continued until 1841 when it was reduced to 21 from 26. Although it was in use for more than 30 years, the 21-gun salute was not formally adopted until Aug. 18, 1875. This was at the suggestion of the British, who proposed a “Gun for Gun Return” to their own 21-gun salute. Today, the 21-gun salute is

an internationally recognized honor rendered to heads-of-state.

‘Taps’

"Taps" is an American call, composed by the Union Army's Brig. Gen. Daniel Butterfield while in camp at Harrison's Landing, Va., in 1862. Butterfield wrote the call to replace the earlier "Tattoo" (lights out), which he thought too formal. The call soon became known as "Taps," because it was often tapped out on a drum in the absence of a bugler. Before the year was out, sounding Taps became the practice in Northern and Southern camps. The call was officially adopted by the U.S. Army in 1874. Col. James A. Moss, in his Officer's Manual first published in 1911, gives this

account of the initial use of Taps at a military funeral: "During the Peninsular Campaign in 1862, a soldier of Tidball's Battery A of the 2nd Artillery was buried at a time when the battery occupied an advanced position concealed in the woods. It was unsafe to fire the customary three volleys over the grave, on account of the proximity of the enemy, and it occurred to Capt. Tidball that the sounding of Taps would be the most appropriate ceremony that could be substituted. The custom, thus originated, was taken up throughout the Army of the Potomac and finally confirmed by orders."

This info was gathered from the manual Drill and Ceremonies.