I was very saddened when talking to the commander of Post 153, New Auburn American Legion, about the Memorial Day parade.

The ELHS band will not be marching because the director could not get any volunteers. The LHS band director pledged a small group of volunteers.

I was 18 years old when I first landed in Korea, as were probably 50 percent of us. I have no statistics, but I would guess than more than 50 percent of those in past wars who struggled to keep the light of freedom shining over the years were America’s youth.

I have to wonder whether Americanism is even discussed in our schools. Who remembers the outcry by the Auburn Veterans of Foreign Wars awhile back concerning a student writer’s article that showed, of the seven letters published, six did not believe in the “Pledge of Allegiance.”

I wonder if the Maine State Parade earlier this month, which the local bands participated in, were voluntary events for the band members, as we’re told Memorial Day is. If so, is it more important to be on television the next day than to remember all those veterans who have made the final sacrifice so our students and all Americans can be free to do whatever they want?

Memorial Day is a day set aside by our government to honor its veterans, both dead and alive. And, at 71, I will be marching, because if I don’t, who will?

Donald W. Linscott Jr., Auburn