ASH FORK, Ariz.—A soldier may go to war and fall on the battlefield. But only a forgotten soldier truly dies.
That’s how James A. Foster Jr., vice-commander of American Legion Post 57 in Ash Fork, Arizona, described it during a ceremony honoring veterans in Ash Fork Settlers Cemetery on Memorial Day.
As the 50 people gathered at the ceremony recited the Pledge of Allegiance, countless other Americans indulged in outdoor barbecues without much consideration of the purpose of the holiday.
James Foster Jr., vice-commander of American Legion Post 57 in Ash Fork, Ariz., (R) pays homage to America’s veterans on Memorial Day, May 29, 2023. (Allan Stein/The Epoch Times)
“There’s no more respect for anything,” lamented Foster, dressed in the white-and-black uniform signifying his position. “I have no idea how it happened but we’re trying to bring it back.”…