A Memorial Day Message from John Edwards

Message to America: Respect Memorial Day, by National Commander Paul A. Morin

Excerpt:

That’s because this column is about Memorial Day, a hallowed day that should be about honoring the more than one million men and women who died in the service of this nation in wars and conflicts dating back to 1775. It should be above politics. Period.

Yet one presidential candidate has blatantly violated the sanctity of this most special day. I recently received an e-mail from a group called “Supportthetroopsendthewar.com.” It included a video of former Sen. John Edwards. He calls on Americans to use Memorial Day weekend as a time to “bring an end to this war.” Shockingly, the video is titled “A Memorial Day Message from John Edwards,” with the smoking gun note, “Paid for by John Edwards for President.” Moreover, the e-mail recommends that Americans bring signs with the message “Support the troops, End the War” to local Memorial Day parades. Revolting is a kind word for it. It’s as inappropriate as a political bumper sticker on an Arlington headstone.

Edwards is hardly the first politician from either political party to exploit this day, a holiday that was consecrated with the blood of American heroes. But the e-mail makes me sick nonetheless. It needs to stop. This isn’t about Edwards, it’s about everybody. As national commander of The American Legion, I implore all candidates to refrain from politicking on Memorial Day.

The families of those killed in war should not be led to believe that their loved ones died for a less-than-worthy cause. They died because they took an oath to defend this nation and its Constitution. The sacrifice is the same whether it’s for a “popular war” or an unpopular one. Memorial Day should be an occasion to bring Americans together to honor these heroes.

Comments: Good read and a reminder that soldiers go where their country sends them! A close relative of mine was opposed to the Iraq war, but volunteered to go with his fellow Marines! Consider my earlier post on Sgt. Allen J. Dunckley. His funeral will be this Thursday (May 24th). He leaves a young wife, Jen; and two young children, Joshua (3) and Hanna (2). He was just 25!

Memorial Day commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country. On Memorial Day remember him and others like him who have so sacrificed. And forget John Edwards!