Reflecting on Memorial Day and Independence

Many believe in the significance of a two-day national holiday. One day would honor fallen soldiers on Memorial Day, and the next would celebrate Independence Day with parades and fireworks. These two days are intertwined, representing a continuous remembrance of sacrifices that underpin our independence.

On my desk, a plastic vial of sand from Omaha Beach in France reminds me of D-Day on June 6, 1944. Above that beach is a military cemetery with over 9,300 graves marked by crosses and Stars of David. The distance from these historic beaches to my village of Park Forest measures more than 4,000 miles, yet they are forever connected in memory.

Park Forest is known as the “G.I. Town,” built after World War II for veterans to restart life peacefully. The Village Green once hosted large Memorial Day gatherings. The late Carl Dalke, a World War II veteran, often attended in uniform adorned with medals. Unfortunately, events at the Park Forest American Legion Post 1198 have dwindled, with recent ceremonies lasting less than 20 minutes for around 40 attendees. A plaque on Village Green lists the names of six residents killed in the Vietnam War, with a reminder that “we shall not forget.”

These fallen heroes, such as Lt. Col. James Alvin Branch and Marine Lance Cpl. Terry King, left a lasting legacy. Their stories are among many that illustrate the sacrifices made. Today, when faced with political discord, it is crucial to remember these values of hope and unity.

Jerry Shnay is a freelance columnist for the Daily Southtown.