Last Memorial Day I discovered the Field of Heroes sponsored by the Westerville Rotary Sunshine Club. If you only have time to read one blog about Memorial Day in Central Ohio, I suggest you go back to that blog. I was inspired after my visit.
The display deserved another visit, and it was nothing like the first time to the memorial.
We had no spring in Central Ohio this year. In April, I had delays in my mural project because of snow and cold. And now, in May, it's sweltering around 90 degrees. Last year, the flags waved in the gentle breeze, which made for some beautiful photographs. This year, the flags hung limp in the dead, still blistering heat. I didn't manage the situation any better. However, the biggest difference between this year and last year was my introduction to the Thin Blue Line flag. In case you haven't seen it and don't know what I'm talking about, it's a black and white version of Old Glory, with a thin blue line crossing the middle of the flag. It's meant to honor the men and women of law enforcement. I am here to testify, the first time I saw it, I had no idea behind the meaning of the flag. It was a little shocking. Research was required! Immediately!
Unfortunately, in the past year, people of Central Ohio have become all too familiar with this flag, its meaning, and the sacrifices made by too many of those who put on the blue uniform. This past February, two officers were slain in the line of duty as they approached a domestic disturbance. It had never happened before in the quiet community of Westerville. The citizens of Westerville were pulled together in grief and unity as never before. Westerville Strong T-shirts, flags, banners and bumper stickers are common sights these days.
In addition to the field of red poppies (which are meant to represent Flanders fields in Belgium), this year there was a collection of blue poppies at the Field of Heroes. It gave a new twist to Memorial Day for me. I've always known that the day was meant to honor those who have lain down their lives in sacrifice so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have today. Somewhere in my memory, I recall a fact that one million people have given their lives in the defense of our country from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War and on through Korea, Vietnam, the Middle East and too many other locations. But in the past, on Memorial Day, I've only thought about those who have given their lives on distant shores. The blue poppies, however, reminded me that those sacrifices are also much closer to home. We have much to be thankful for on this holiday, thankful for those who heed the call abroad as well as for those who protect us on our shores.
Be thankful, wave the flag and remember.