Who will lay the wreaths?
Throughout the years we may attend events that make us think. Some of these events are based on tradition. They were created so that we never forget. But in more recent years there appears to be politicians who want to fundamentally change America. Why? They may claim that some parts of our history are dark or insensitive. But, don’t they realize, that is a reason to remember so we don’t forget and repeat?
One observation is that our society was steeped in segregation and in some instances it now appears to be returning but in reverse, so, did we really learn anything? Our history also includes war and death and some of that history has led us to our present, and many lives were lost to get us here, so why would we want to forget? What kind of “change” are they looking for?
I attended and documented photographically one of those inspirational events called Wreaths Across America that involved a lot of hours of planning and resulted in a simple gesture of laying a wreath at a veteran’s final resting place. Many did not know of the planning but participated in the event, which was great to see especially on a damp rainy day, and as simple as a gesture it was to some, it was a tearful remembrance for others.
The event included some pomp and circumstance also included clergy, a band, some military young and old, politicians, as well as some volunteer members of the public both young and old. It was heartwarming to see the youth whether a young cadet, a scout or someone’s child lay some wreaths with the understanding that, with that simple gesture, they were a part of a continuing tradition that hopefully does not soon get forgotten.
But if the goal of some is to fundamentally change America and forget our past, who will lay the wreaths, raise the monuments, march or watch the parades? At that point, will we really be living or just existing? All history may not be rainbows and unicorns but we must remember it all, the good and bad so we don’t repeat the bad for lest we forget.
Markanthony Izzo
Derby