31 May 2010

Memorial Day, 31 May 2010

For the Fallen...

    [We forgo the usual gungirl pic today in honor of Memorial Day.]
    You may have seen the boots-rifle-helmet monument before, either as a statue or in news photos of military funeral services, and wondered about its symbolism. The helmet, symbolizing the fallen soldier, rests on the butt of the rifle, which is inserted into the ground by the fixed bayonet between the boots. The inverted rifle signifies a break in action and a time for prayer. The combat boots symbolize the final march of the last battle. Often, for services at front line units, the soldier's dog tags are added, as well as unit insignia or symbols. An air assault unit, for example, will add a coiled rappel rope to the display.
    Memorial Day itself began as a commemoration of Civil War dead. Known as Decoration Day, the original ceremonies of decorating the tombs of Union dead with garlands and wreaths is echoed today by similar rites at US military cemeteries all over the world. The most famous is the traditional laying of the wreath at The Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery by the President of the United States.
    Amid the distractions of vacation trips, barbecues, and sales, it's easy to lose sight of the significance of this Memorial Day holiday. When the holiday was initially commemorated, the United States had emerged from a brutal Civil War with the equivalent in today's population density of six million dead. Virtually every community was affected by loss. Perhaps, the losses are more keenly felt today by families and friends isolated from each other in their mourning.
    Whether we think the ongoing conflicts are justified or not, our brothers and sisters have laid down their lives for us. Pause a brief moment today to reflect on that supreme sacrifice and honor their fidelity and devotion to duty.

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