It Is The Soldier: Local Veteran Reflects on Memorial Day

Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day when it was first observed on May 30, 1868. It is a day of remembrance for those who have died while in service to our nation. The name Memorial Day became more commonly used after World War II and it continued to be observed on May 30. In 1968 Congress passed the “Uniform Holiday Bill” which designated Memorial Day to be the last Monday in May.

The American Flag is raised to full height and solemnly lowered to half-staff to remember all of the men and women who died in the service of the United States. It is then raised to its full height at noon so that the living will remember their sacrifice and continue to support the principles of liberty and justice for all. The American Flag is left at full height for the remainder of the day.

Memorial Day brings to mind fond thoughts of backyard barbecues with family and friends. Many consider it to be the start of summer and a big day of sales for business. Let us not get caught up in the celebration and lose sight of the true meaning of Memorial Day. Please take the time on Monday to “remember” those that made the ultimate sacrifice, so we can live free in a country that is great and full of opportunity.

This poem by Charles M. Province, who is a veteran and founder of the George S. Patton Jr. Historical Society, is worthy of our reflection while remembering those who died for us. 

IT IS THE SOLDIER
By Charles S. Province

It is the Soldier, not the minister
Who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the Soldier, not the reporter
Who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the Soldier, not the poet
Who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the Soldier, not the campus organizer
Who has given us freedom to protest.

It is the Soldier, not the lawyer
Who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the Soldier, not the politician
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is the Soldier who salutes the flag,
Who serves beneath the flag,
And whose coffin is draped by the flag,
Who allows the protester to burn the flag.

Kenneth Aitken
Jr. Vice Commander / Service Officer
Guadalcanal VFW Post 4745
Cliffwood, New Jersey.