Mayor McGlynn’s Memorial Day Address

Good morning. Memorial Day is the official day when our nation stops to honor Americans who died while defending our freedoms. It was established to promote reconciliation and coming together to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Memorial Day can be traced back to the Civil War, but it was not officially proclaimed until 1868.

In 1915, inspired by the poem, “In Flanders Fields,” the outstanding Georgia educator, Moina Michael replied with her own poem:

“We cherish too, the poppy red, that grows on fields where valor led. It seems to signal to the skies, that blood of heroes never dies.”

She thought of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial Day to honor those who died. She sold poppies to her family, friends and co-workers and gave the money to servicemen. This tradition spread to other countries and in 1922, the Veterans of Foreign Wars became the first veteran’s organization to nationally sell poppies. In 1948, the United States Post Office issued a stamp in Moina Michael honor for her role in founding the national poppy movement. Moina serves as an example for us all on how ordinary citizens can take the leadership role and do extraordinary things.

Over the years, the meaning of Memorial Day has somewhat diminished, with many Americans forgetting its most important traditions. Memorial Day has become known as the “first official” kick-off of summer and the weekend of the Indianapolis 500. But, we in Medford have never forgotten! We always come together to honor those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. We in Medford never need to be reminded to honor our veterans, who put aside their personal lives, their families and their educations, to go off to fight to protect the freedoms we all hold so dear.

Throughout this city there are many memorials and plaques honoring those who have served, including the Korean, Vietnam and World War II Honor Roll Park at Temple Shalom. We must remember, for in remembering we do justice to all of their memories. This weekend, the nation lost two men who proudly served this country during World War II. Retired Colonel and former assistant regional director of the Small Business Administration, Mr. James McLaurin, at 87, a Roxbury native, who was a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen and retired Navy Lieutenant John W. Finn, the oldest surviving Congressional Medal of Honor recipient who died Thursday at 100 years of age. Today, there are fewer than 75 Tuskegee pilots and only 90 Congressional Medal of Honor recipients who are still with us. As Mr. McLaurin once said, “We didn’t know we were making history.” And as Mr. Finn described his Medal of Honor, “We were doing our duty, and that’s what I did. I never intended to be a hero, but on December 7th, by God, we’re in a war.”

Since the early 1950’s, at Arlington National Cemetery, “where valor proudly sleeps”, soldiers from the 3rd US Infantry Regiment, more commonly known as the Old Guard, are joined by service members from all of the armed forces ceremonial and guard units in placing American flags, on the grave sites of all who rest at Arlington. This time-honored tradition began after funerals were completed Thursday. They patrol the cemetery 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing.

It is my hope that all of us will note the “National Moment of Remembrance” asking all Americans at 3PM today to voluntarily pause and respect a moment of silence for all our veterans.

In addition, we must also take a moment to remember those fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq. As usual, Medford residents have answered the call and have served and are serving us proudly in the war against terrorism, and in bases around the world. We also must take the time to honor all veterans who have served in every war, conflict or crises.

Memorial Day offers us the opportunity to personally thank our veterans for their devotion and dedication to our country. We honor them, as they have honored us, serving so courageously in the face of conflict.

At the national World War II monument in Washington, D.C., a quote is included from president Harry Truman and I feel it is most appropriate today.

He stated: “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”

Thank you all very much and God bless America!