2012 Convention UpdatesPurchase Your Ad for 2012 Convention Program Book Memorial Day: Pick Your Perversion
 The Boston chapter of Veterans for Peace aren’t typically known for their quiet assemblies. Rather, somewhat of a ruckus tends to accompany the Smedley D. Butler Brigade, whether in its boisterous participation in Veterans Day and St. Paddy’s Day parades or in its members’daring defiance of the eviction order at Occupy Boston last October. more |
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Memorial Day, originally known as “Decoration Day,” was created in the aftermath of the Civil War as a day to honor the memory and sacrifice of Union soldiers who had died in battle. It later broadened to include the theme of reconciliation, honoring Confederate soldiers as well; and through the years has become a day to remember all U.S. military personnel who have died in combat. Increasingly, it evolved from simply decorating the graves and solemn memorialization of those killed, to opportunities for flag-waving, nationalistic displays with parades, marching bands and political speeches. Today, it has become a perversion of its original intent in two ways.<