2023 Memorial Day Message
Chris commented in Oliver Stone’s Platoon, I believe that those of us who survived combat have a duty to share what we learned to best honor those who could not follow us home. In 1989, I was an advisor to the Fullerton College version of Tracers, a play that reflected upon the experiences and aftereffects of the Vets of the Vietnam War. I have written a Memorial Day message every year since. In each annual message, I explain why I made the commitment to write this message and why I feel that it is important to make my message relevant to our time. Even though Memorial Day was originally intended to honor those lost during combat, it is a more personal and internal commentary to me.
I feel that we should consider more than the loss of veterans. More importantly, we should consider the value-added aspects provided to all Americans by those who serve, who have served, or who have paid the price for their service. Americans should honor and reflect upon the values advocated by those who serve or have served in the military. I believe that military service provides a valuable insight to all Americans on how to be good citizens.
For my part, as a teacher of oriental martial arts for over a half century already, I have done my best to make that message a part of our training program. I mentor my students and fellow instructors to appreciate and advocate the values of military experience. In that way, we reflect the American values that advocate a common bond of unity and service. That has not always been an easy task. Sometimes, I struggle to convey those meanings to those who have not been in the military.
I suggest that, on this Memorial Day, our focus needs to be on more than just remembering those we lost. It should be to honor their service and their sacrifice by living our lives as they did. All soldiers are taught Esprit de Corp, spirit of the body. They act as team players. We can, and we must, act in the same way. As a former soldier and a present-day warrior, I am committed to working towards the goals of unity, integrity, and service. Won’t you join me in my quest for the Impossible Dream? In that way, we honor all soldiers—past, present, and future…