“I have grown grey in your service and now I find myself growing blind.” – General George Washington, who went on to become the first President of the United States
More than words
Next Monday, this community joins in a parade and wreath-laying ceremony to honor our war dead. The publishers of your community newspaper, like most families here, have a special person in mind on Memorial Day. Our former co-publisher, Faith Laursen, served in the American Red Cross in India and Burma (now Myanmar) during World War II, covering the news of the troops in the Burma campaign.
Like many in the “Greatest Generation” who served overseas, she suffered from tropical disease that may have had lasting health effects and shortened their lives. But also like many of them, she felt any sacrifices were worth it for the country she loved.
Taking the time to remember those who gave their lives for their country, and those who served and no longer are with us, is an important part of Memorial Day. Equally important, they would say, is remembering those serving in the Armed Forces today, and those in the veterans’ hospitals.
Our servicemen and women and our veterans deserve the very best of medical care this country has to offer. And so, as long as we can, we will keep repeating the proposal made by Jack Rice, a former longtime staff member and teacher. We need a “gold card” for veterans that will pay the bills at the Mayo Clinic or any health care facility they choose. The funding of our veterans’ facilities just has not kept pace with the need.