Consideration When Posting Memorials for Veterans
As a veteran, I'm proud of my service and hope it is remembered when my time comes. However, I believe there's a thoughtful way to honor our service, and I want to share my perspective on how we memorialize veterans.
Please reconsider adding a rank prefix just because it's on a veteran's marker. While the rank is important in acknowledging someone's service, it doesn't need to define them, especially when their rank was no longer part of their identity for decades. For example, I haven't been referred to by my rank since 1991, and when I pass, I hope my memorial reflects who I was at the time of death, not the rank I held long ago.
If someone dies while actively serving—such as KIA, DNB, MIA, or with a retirement rank—then by all means, include their rank. But for those whose rank was decades ago, it doesn't truly reflect who they became later in life. Imagine calling someone "Pvt" or "Sgt" years after their service ended—it's not how they were known in their later years.
I've reached out to [email protected], and while they agree veterans should be honored, they haven't enforced any rule saying rank must be included just because it's on the marker. Honor the individual by using their name without the prefix. The rank can be noted elsewhere, in the biography or inscription, but it doesn't need to be the first thing someone sees.
Let's also remember that veterans' markers are free—many families can't afford a private engraving, so the marker is often their only option. We can show respect by letting the individual's name stand on its own and use the marker for relevant service details.
Thank you for considering this. If you manage any memorials, please take a moment to review and make this adjustment if you feel it aligns with this perspective. And above all, let's continue honoring veterans in the way they deserve.
May God Bless America!