Operation Veterans Promise

Looking back, on May 26, 1966, President Johnson signed a presidential order naming Waterloo, New York as the birthplace of Memorial Day. Prior to this, the 89th congress had officially recognized the tradition in regards to paying respect for soldiers of fallen wars, which had begun a hundred years earlier. In, 1865, Mr. Henry Welles, having lost friends in the Civil War, suggested to General John B. Murray, a Civil War hero, that it would be good to remember soldiers who did not make it home from that war. Realizing what should be done, they gathered support from other surviving Veterans. On May 5th 1866, in true espirit de corps, they marched to three local cemeteries to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. The struggle for recognition continued and on May 5th 1868, General John A. Logan in his capacity as the commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (The Veteran’s organization for Civil War soldiers) issued a proclamation calling for “Decoration Day” to be observed annually nationwide. By May 30th of that year, it was officially recognized for the first time. Waterloo, New York still celebrates Memorial Day on this day.

 

At first, this new national holiday was emphasized by public figures to commemorate the civil war and to recall the atrocities of the enemy. They would often mix beliefs and celebratory nationalism as a way for people to understand their history in terms of sacrifice for a better nation. People of all faiths joined, to the point that it is said Irish and German soldiers had become true American patriots baptised by the trials of combat. The War Between the States was a war among brothers. By the late 1800’s, the war time rancour was gone with an emphasis on praising the brave service members who fought to secure a better way of life. By the 1950’s, Memorial Day had turned into what we knowingly recognize today. America’s dedication and commitment to a free world was defined by honouring those who had made the ultimate sacrifice.

 

The oath to defend the United States from all enemies, foreign and domestic, is one that not all have the will and fortitude to volunteer. Losses and hardships experienced serve as reminders that the freedoms we enjoy daily are not free and possible because of bold and courageous sacrifices. Without the strength and dedication forged into every serviceman and woman, we would not be the nation we are today. The call to action is ever present, and we are always ready to respond to it. Keeping in memory that this is what every Soldier, Marine, Sailor, and Airman take to heart every day.  This is the core value inherent to all Veterans. As history has proven, for the valiant warriors who did not return home, their countrymen for whom their life was given, should not forget those sacrifices.

 

So today, on Memorial Day, let us pause for a moment. Consider all the service members who have lost their lives in the call to duty; the honourable cause to defend the freedoms of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. To the service members who lost an extension of themselves, be it physical or psychological, it is not a memory but a daily battle. For their sacrifice on our behalf, let us ensure they don’t struggle alone. In memory of the families who lost the irreplaceable affection, confidence, and strength of a loved one. We often don’t take the time to consider that because for them every day is Memorial Day.

 

(C3) Communication, Community, Camaraderie