EPIPHANY OF THE DAY

TALES OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC

 Finished a re-reading of James A. Michener’s “Tales of the South Pacific” last evening. Had chosen the read for a refreshment of the descriptions of the remnants of Norfolk Island, the romance of Nellie Forbush, and the conversations about what we call “the Paradise Syndrome.” That pertains to the tendencies of societies that live in an apparent paradise, without apparent danger or care, to effect brutal and complex religions.

This time I was struck by the final chapter in which the narrator visits a military cemetery on a deserted South Pacific Island, victims of the invasion of a nearby island. Two African American soldiers tend the cemetery full-time, ostensibly as punishment by a bigoted commanding officer.

Two thoughts came to mind.

To the modern reader, the attempt by Michener to phrase the dialogue in southern black dialogue would seem condescending and an affront by a white author. I’m sure the overused term “racists” would emerge. But in 1947, the chapter did, I’m sure, generate equal offense among southern readers offended by the fact that the two caretakers emerge, with a careful reading, as patriotic, dependable, honest, and eloquent defenders of the brave soldiers buried under their care.

I won’t attempt to judge.

The other thought: how timely that I read this during a time when America’s most cherished military cemetery recently suffered invasion and dishonor. Sadly, the act was performed by a political candidate devoid of any respect for people who have worn the uniform of our country, including those who have died wearing it.

I think Michener’s cemetery caretakers would stand up well in comparison with that modern politician.

EPIPHANY OF THE DAY

 STONES

Maybe it is because I am a veteran of a foreign war that several people have asked for my impressions of The Great Arlington Campaign Photo Op. My thought? Thank goodness for the United States Navy wherein I learned language appropriate to the task, language that I shall try to avoid.

The white tombstones called to mind a story I heard once. An older veteran of World War Two told it to me. He was a former member of United States Naval Construction Battalions, better known as the Navy Seabees. That organization accepted older enlistees, and given his age, it was his only chance to serve. And serve he did, for almost four years in the South Pacific. Never sell "elderly" men short.

He told me of coming home on a troop ship. As it sailed through the Golden Gate, people on the Marin County side had painted huge white boulders and placed them on the hillside. They spelled out, "Welcome Home Boys."

That always touched me. It still does when I think of the fact that no such welcome sign greeted our plane when it landed in California. A much different welcome awaited us.

So what do I think of a draft-dodger desecrating a sacred place like Arlington Cemetery? I think Donald J. Trump and his followers are living ancestor of the sons of bitches that yelled "Baby Killers" at us on our arrival home.