Response to Merchant Marine Recognition Letter

Captain Rohena’s letter demanding Merchant Marine recognition by the American Legion Post 404 is misplaced and unwarranted. The American Legion mission is “to enhance the well-being of America’s veterans, their families, our military, and our communities by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.” The Veterans Community Park flag stand flies only military service flags. The Merchant Marine has never been a military service so its flag should not be flown alongside the Military Services, nor its song played with the military service songs. It is a fact that the merchant mariners serving during WWII received veteran status, but only the men, not the service, and only for that short period of time. Only those who served at that time can join the American Legion, and we welcome all to apply. If we were to honor those who suffered great casualties during a war, then we would have to honor American contractors for service during the two-decade long Afghanistan war. Serving alongside our service men and women providing intelligence, security and logistical support, contractor deaths were almost twice that of our military. Post 404 recognized Merchant Marine contributions several years ago during a ceremony and probably will again in the future so we have not ignored their contribution to our country’s security. Captain Rohena is welcome to purchase stones in the Memorial Walk to honor Merchant Mariners. I suggest he work with his local Merchant Marine Alumni Association to plan recognition ceremonies. If he would like a memorial to honor WWII Merchant Mariners, in the Veterans Community Park, he should work with the city and his alumni association to plan and fund the memorial.