Editorial: A fitting Memorial Day tribute

Through this month, city officials, nonprofits and community activists — too many to name individually — have organized several events this weekend to commemorate the division and pay tribute to them and all others who lost their lives serving our country. In the last week, activity has picked up. Public works crews are busy tidying downtown and there are even plans to replace a mighty redwood tree struck by lightning in the big storm about a month ago with a donated tree in Central Park Sunday at the conclusion of the 11 a.m. parade downtown. A barbecue in Central Park will follow.

Anyone who takes the time to notice will see there are constant reminders of the city’s relationship with the Screaming Eagles, whether it be a grove of plants in Central Park or the placard by Fire Station 21. This is a meaningful relationship in several ways.

It was a bold move for the city in 1968 to adopt the company and hold the parade in 1972, when many were treating returning soldiers poorly. The city was the only in this nation to hold such a parade. It showed a level of pride and respect for those serving in the military and an understanding of what that support means for those overseas. Since that adoption, scores of other cities have made a similar effort to show their support.

The parade will feature current members of the Screaming Eagles, ready to take a third tour of duty in Afghanistan, and those who also served in Vietnam.

Adopting the unit was bold and organizing this weekend’s festivities was no small task. But it was a task well worth it.