“A teachable moment” is how American Legion National Commander Michael D. Helm characterized a viral photograph of children climbing on the Vietnam Women’s Memorial. The photo began circulating on social media earlier this week and has raised ire from organizations and patriotic citizens.
Helm said that the incident shows that Americans, or at least some Americans, may need to be reminded of the proper way to show respect for their country and the men and women who have served it.
“I am not angry with the children in the photograph who probably did not understand the significance of their actions and weren’t intending to be disrespectful," Helm said. "I do not know enough about the circumstances to know if their parents or caretakers were aware of it.
"But when I hear stories of joggers running through the grounds of the Vietnam Memorial or of people speaking loudly near the Tomb of the Unknowns, I can’t help but think that America needs a refresher course on dignity, reverence and respect. Baseball caps should come off when the Star-Spangled Banner is played and everybody should stand. The Internet is showing us that these type of incidents are no longer isolated but are sadly becoming too common.”
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