I was really touched to see the article on May 18, 2024 in the Gazette “Banner time for Veterans” about how 82 veterans from Hadley are being personally recognized for their service on Memorial Day with their pictures being displayed. As a World War II combat veteran myself, I think it’s so important that those who have served our country are being highlighted in this way. Memorial Day is a time for recognition of the important loss of each soldier who died fighting for our country. Even though they may have all been participants in the armed forces or a larger war effort, ultimately we need to think of them as individuals. Memorial Day not only offers an opportunity for all Americans to remember and mourn the lives that were sacrificed in times past, but it is particularly poignant for veterans like me who still think of their close buddies and fellow soldiers who were killed. I hope that more communities will follow Hadley’s example in recognizing those killed in war as individuals who deserve special recognition.
Sidney Moss
Northampton