Jeff Backer: Memorial Day 2010

Memorial Day 2010
To the Editor:

How does one say thanks to veterans? To those slain on foreign soil and buried where their families will probably never see the grave? How do we show appreciation to the wounded and maimed, facing an uncertain future with a life of pain and handicaps? What healing balm can be given to those who have witnessed the horrific scenes of battle that have made an indelible imprint on their minds? What words of comfort are to be offered as consolation to the families that have suffered the loss of father, mother, brother, sister, son or daughter? On this 2010 Memorial Day, let us remember to say “thanks.”

T stands for “thanks.” It does not have to be eloquent. Too often nothing is said when just a simple “thank you for all you are doing or have done” is appreciated.

H stands for “honor.” We honor them by showing up at Memorial Day services either at home or wherever we are. We can buy a poppy as a sign of honor.
A stands for “appreciation.” This means to value or esteem those who have served. It means to tell your children that Memorial Day means more than the start of summer vacation. It means telling them that we have a free country because someone died or fought to keep us free.

N stands for “notice” those in uniform. They are in the grocery store, in airports and walking down the street. Look around and you will be surprised at the number of them. Remember that for each uniform you see, there are many other service men and women walking around in civilian clothes.

K stands for “kindness.” It means to show deference to those who have served in uniform. There are stories of WWII servicemen having no trouble hitch hiking when in uniform. People bought them lunch or other treats. How do we show courtesy today? I hear of people trading first class seats on an airplane with a service man sitting in coach. Giving them your place in line is a public and simple eloquent gesture of kindness.

S represents “standing behind our men and women.” Not all can serve on the front line but we can serve those who are there. Perhaps it means helping family left behind with yardwork, making sure the car is maintained or that the plumbing works. Ask if there are things that the families need.

Jeff Backer
Browns Valley, Minn.