ANNVILLE, Pa. (AP/CLARKSVILLENOW) — While millions of Americans celebrate the long Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial start of summer, some veterans and loved ones of fallen military members wish the holiday would command more respect.
Veterans groups say a growing military-civilian disconnect contributes to a feeling that Memorial Day has been overshadowed.
More than 12 percent of the U.S. population served in the armed forces during World War II. That’s down to less than one-half of a percent today, guaranteeing more Americans aren’t personally acquainted with a soldier, sailor, airman or Marine.
Allison Jaslow is a former Army captain and Iraq War veteran. She says the country’s “lost sight of what the day’s supposed to mean.”
“We invite all Americans to share a moment of silence with us in honor of all men and women who have fallen in the line of duty,” continued Jaslow. “We ask participants to encourage their friends and family to take just one minute to join thousands as we #GoSilent as well. As our country remains deeply divided, this is one easy way for us all to unite as Americans. Don’t let your holiday weekend get in the way. ”
Her group, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, is encouraging Americans to pause for a moment of silence at 2:00 p.m. Central Time Monday.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.