Imagine a two-day national holiday that begins with Memorial Day, honoring those lost in war, and follows with a celebration of independence featuring parades and fireworks. These days are forever linked, reminding us of the sacrifices made to uphold the values we cherish in our independence.
On my desk sits a plastic vial containing grains of sand from Omaha Beach, France, the D-Day site of June 6, 1944. Above the beach lies a cemetery for over 9,300 service members. Though over 4,000 miles separate these beaches from Park Forest, where I live, there exists a strong link of memory between the two.
Park Forest, known as the “G.I. Town,” was built after World War II for veterans to rebuild their lives. It offered a chance for veterans to create a peaceful future and nurture the next generation.
Memorial Day once drew large crowds to the Village Green in Park Forest, where tributes were held for those lost in war. The late Carl Dalke, a World War II veteran, attended in his decorated uniform. Although Carl passed away 15 years ago, things always evolve. The Park Forest American Legion Post 1198, which organized these tributes, has faced challenges. This year’s ceremony lasted under 20 minutes and drew only around 40 attendees.
The Village Green features a plaque with the names of six Park Forest residents who died during the Vietnam War, along with the phrase, “we shall not forget.” This legacy is left for the living.
Among them was Lt. Col. James Alvin Branch, who piloted a mission over North Vietnam in 1965 before his plane was shot down. Recovery was delayed due to enemy activity. In 1992, joint efforts identified his remains.
Warrant Officer Rodney O. Davie’s helicopter lost contact and crashed during a night mission in 1967, claiming four crew members.
Lance Cpl. Terry King, killed in 1967, had served less than a year in Vietnam.
Cpl. Joseph Passavanti III began duty in Vietnam in 1968 and was killed in action in May, a victim of small arms fire.
Sgt. John A. LaBundy died in June 1968, just days before turning 21, also by small arms fire.
In 1970, Pvt. Gary McHugh died after convulsions following exposure to explosives, hindered by weather conditions preventing medevac.
Amid today’s partisan noise, it’s crucial to focus on the values that make our country a beacon of hope.
Jerry Shnay is a freelance columnist for the Daily Southtown.