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[Over the years the meaning of Memorial Day has faded more and more from the public consciousness. From a solemn day of mourning, of remembrance, of honor to our departed loved ones, it has degenerated into a day where only token nods toward our honored dead is given, if at all. Too many people don't even know what the day stands for.

But let's not blame them. The blame belongs to those of us who know what the true meaning is but fail to observe the day, or at best give a weak token nod toward it (because we don't want to appear "odd" or "different" or a "party-pooper"?) The blame belongs to those of us who know the true meaning but do not politely teach others it, pass it down to our children, make it a family tradition. And the blame belongs to those of us who know, and honor the day, but do not support any societal efforts to return "Memorial" back to Memorial Day.]

Let us never forget...and remind Americans about the meaning of this most reverent day.

I can't remember when it happened but these men some how found their way into my life. I don't know if they agreed with the war or wanted to be involved because I never had the chance to meet them. Today I remember them and their service.

JAMES WAYNE HERRICK JR : Panel 17W - Line 124
PAUL JENNINGS BATES JR : Panel 03W - Line 127
RICHARD THOMAS KASTNER : Panel 16W - Line 80

Have you forgotten yet?...
Look down, and swear by the slain of the War that you'll never forget!...
Have you forgotten yet?...
Look up, and swear by the green of spring that you'll never forget!
From "Aftermath"
by Siegfried Sassoon, 1919