On a sour note to the day, vandals spray-painted anti-war slogans on Ottawa's National War Memorial, just hours before ceremonies were to begin. Just before 5:30 a.m., black spray paint was used to deface the base of the memorial. Staff from the National Capital Commission erased the lettering with a pressure washer. http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/1068552963295_14///?hub=TopStories
I've noticed that today hasn't been any different in regards to Veteran's Day where I am. The only thing I noticed that was different was an upside down American flag. I understand that we are in Iraq and that is unpopular with a fair amount of people, but most people should be smart enough to realize that honoring men and women who died to keep the free world free is not jingoistic and is not an endorsement of war or the policies of the current administration. [/end rant]
No matter which side I am on in a given topic, I can never condone vandalism. Quicksand, there were parades & other rememberances of Veterans' Day in my part of the world. Those who protest need to remember who guaranteed their right to do so.
I'm not saying not a thing happened anywhere, but I was genuinely shocked that I saw more on campus when Elliot Smith died, then on Veteran's Day.
We had a terrific Veteran's Day celebration here in Saratoga. Amongst other things, we had a parade, complete with the high school marching band and the mayor giving a speech. We also had plenty of peace symbols. The two go hand in hand: Respect for our heros and veterans, and respect for peace.
The problem with those who protest is that they often have selective memories, which can either be intentional or by design. They're view of those who fought for freedom almost exclusively to people like MLK and Susan Anthony. Those are noble, until they start adding their own "freedom fighters" to the mix. Soldier that fought for freedom tend to often be treated with indifference, or even worse.