May is a beautiful month that proudly sits in the middle of spring, a very delicate time of year when all of nature awakens from its winter slumber. What once seemed barren and life-less, now buds forth with signs of rebirth and hope. A fresh floral scent permeates the air as April showers brought May flowers, as promised.
Appropriately we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, a day to honor and express our thanks to our mothers who gave us birth; while their guidance, warmth and love gave us hope.
Peaceful as these images are, I would like, instead, to turn your attention to war – particularly those who fight them – warriors. For this month also celebrates two other important dates – Armed Forces Day (May 21) and Memorial Day (May 31).
Armed Forces Day was established in 1949 to unify the Armed Forces under one department – the Department of Defense. But it was also meant to create one day for the public to show their appreciation for all the armed services who serve our country, at home and abroad. Early celebrations included parades, open houses and air shows; and often military equipment, planes and ships were on display.
Memorial Day was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of both union and confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. After World War I, the day became a symbol of honoring all those who died fighting for America, in any war.
Although these two days were established almost 80 years apart, they had a lot in common – weapons and warriors.
From ancient times the weapons, equipment and uniforms of war have changed. Without a doubt we have come a long way from loin cloths and spears and hand-to-hand combat. Now the warrior must be wary of what comes from the air, the land, the sea and under the earth.
And from ancient times, the purpose for going to war has changed, also.
But what never changes is the heart of the warrior. It is molded of courage, bravery, vigor and an undying belief in a cause.
Renton’s Veterans Memorial on Main and South Third Street honors those who have and are currently serving in our military and reserves. The Renton Parks Department always ensures that flowers are present year round to express our thanks.
Behind the floral display is an impressive sculpture of a large eagle with outstretched wings, hovering over the whole earth that appears to be wrapped in an American flag. The image elicits both controversy and pride. Should America always respond to those who outstretch their hands asking for our help in obtaining their liberty and freedom? Not all agree. Others outstretch their fists in defiance of our help. Both hand gestures usually lead to war, and more warriors, and more memorials.
Yet with pride, when called upon, we have answered the call. For how is it that so many around the world enjoy the gift of freedom? The answer is blowing in the wind – the American flag – the guiding force behind all those who have bravely fought and defended its principles – not just for us, but for others.
On these two days in May, we stand in awe – not of the weapons, nor the complicated issues – but of the warrior, both the living and the dead. We express our gratitude to all of them – who do what most of us can’t or won’t, and give us what we want and need – freedom.
Tish Gregory is a freelance writer. She can be contacted at: tishgregory@aol.com
