To the editor:

Yes, it is sad the V-J Day parade will fade into past celebrations of the end of wars. Sadly, WWII will be just remembered as one of the other wars we have been in. But that is our way, the American way.

We go about our daily life brushing away thoughts of why we can live as we do. As heartbreaking remembrances fade, and enemies are forgiven, life goes on and the next generation takes on the burdens of the next war. They too, will be mentioned briefly in the history books.

Since it was those who earned it, had the sad duty of disbanding it, then I will reluctantly agree with them. The parade has lost its meaning. But for me, I will always remember that day. I described it in an earlier letter; let me again remember it with others.

As a teenager on that day I recall celebrations, tears and prayers. I remember the churches being opened and people softly crying. I remember smiles and embracing. It was a day filled with mixed emotions.

We celebrate not because of the defeat of a nation, but rather for the pride and sorrow and relief of a nation. Pride in the thousands who stood up for their country in a time of peril.

Sorrow for those who gave their lives and for those who returned to Veterans hospitals throughout the country in order that our freedom and the freedom of other nations shall not perish. Relief that the war was over and that thousands of our loved ones would be coming home.

I sometimes get dismayed at the lack of attendance at our gatherings. Few at Memorial Day; few at the Elks Flag Day, yes, few at the V-J Day parade, but overall, there is no other country who flies their flag more than Americans.

When time of peril endangers our lives and the lives of others, the American people show their spirit and stand up against it. Parade or not, there are no better streets to walk than the streets of Seymour, Indiana.

Don Hill

Seymour