Back when I worked in Fire/EMS, I also served in the small volunteer fire department in the town in which I lived. This village has a Memorial Day procession and ceremony every year. It’s a big deal.

The members of the VFW and American Legion march to the cemetery up on the hill to place a wreath at the monument listing all the local citizens who were killed in all the various wars (declared or not). The fire apparatus and ambulances follow along behind the marchers. Behind the fire department equipment, dozens of local citizens of all ages march. As I said, it’s a big deal in that village.

The oldest member of the VFW makes a short speech, usually talking about the reality of war. Often this is given by a man who had been wounded in action, speaking of the way that being wounded felt, the horror of watching your friends die, and sometimes about the way it felt to injure or kill your opposite number on the other side.

The wreath is laid at the foot of the monument and silence is observed. The entire event honors the dead without glorifying war. It is very moving.

This year, one might think that this ceremony wouldn’t be taking place. It is in New York State where “New York State will allow Memorial Day ceremonies with 10 people or less, at the discretion of local governments.”

However, it is in rural NY, in a village where the Volunteer Fire Department Ladies’ Auxiliary is better armed than the New York State police barracks up the road. Guess what? I’ve been reliably informed that the ceremony is going ahead exactly as usual.

Fuck off, Cuomo.

 

On to links.

Finally! Although as HM points out, if your parents opted for the 64 color box, most of those were included. I guess this is simply a marketing ploy? Everyone will buy the 64 color box and the special one.

He’s not wrong.

“In times of crisis, Person said it is normal for a person’s mental state to change.”

I wish people would stop hoarding all the flour that I need for the baking I always do. Related: Do any of you have a home grain mill you like? If this keeps up, I might need to acquire one.

This is not a color unspoiled fresh tofu should be.

 

 

And a song for today.