Honoring Sacrifice and Independence

We should consider a two-day national holiday. First, bow our heads to honor those lost in war on Memorial Day. Follow it with a celebration of independence, marked by parades, speeches, and fireworks. These days are linked, reminding us of the sacrifices made for the values we cherish.

On my desk is a vial filled with sand from Omaha Beach, the D-Day invasion site on June 6, 1944. Above lies a military cemetery with over 9,300 graves, marked by crosses and Stars of David. There’s an unbreakable link between this place and my village, Park Forest, over 4,000 miles away.

Known as the “G.I. Town,” Park Forest offered post-war veterans a new start. It was a place to build peaceful lives and prepare for the future. Memorial Day once drew large crowds to the Village Green to honor those who never returned. Carl Dalke, a veteran, always attended in his uniform adorned with medals from World War II. He passed away 15 years ago.

The Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, which once led these celebrations, faces hard times. The ceremony now lasts under 20 minutes before a small crowd. A memorial plaque on Village Green lists six residents who died in Vietnam, stating, “we shall not forget.”

Their stories remain. Lt. Col. James Alvin Branch was shot down in Vietnam in 1965. Found in 1992. Warrant Officer Rodney O. Davie died in a helicopter collision in 1967. Marine Lance Cpl. Terry King, serving less than a year, was killed in combat. Army Cpl. Joseph Passavanti III fell to small arms fire in 1968. Army Sgt. John A. LaBundy also died in hostile action shortly before his 21st birthday. Pvt. Gary McHugh died in 1970 from complications after handling explosives.

Today, amidst political noise, we must focus on the values that created a nation of hope.

Jerry Shnay is a freelance columnist for the Daily Southtown.