Letter to the editor: Honor the reason the nation observes Memorial Day

Why we observe

Memorial Day was designated as a day to honor and remember the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country as members of the U.S. military. Contrast this tradition with what we’ve witnessed over the past week.

As the U.S. COVID-19 death toll approaches 100,000, the president has openly admitted to taking no responsibility for his actions or inactions. Crowds of people swarm to resorts at the Lake of the Ozarks, ignoring health and public safety guidelines. (May 25, 1A, “Crowded parties at Missouri lake raising concerns”) Many of these partiers will soon be returning to their greater Kansas City homes, risking bringing the virus back with them.

Far-right extremist leaders and members of the Kansas Legislature conduct a 24-hour marathon session to rush through their partisan agenda with no time for review or debate. (May 24, 16A, “Kansas Legislature’s rush to limit Gov. Kelly’s power was a circus”)

Is this what our brave members of the armed forces gave their lives for? The next time you fly the flag, wear a flag pin, or say, “Thank you for your service,” take time to reflect. Symbolism with no substance is meaningless.

- Colleen W. Knight, Leawood