Inexcusible action

In case you missed it, there was a recent report about the firing of a woman and her co-worker from their jobs at a non-profit in Cape Cod, because of a picture that was posted on Facebook.  In the picture, the woman is seen "flipping the bird" to the fallen and appearing to scream at Arlington National Cemetery, next to a sign reading "Silence and Respect."  Do a search on the Internet and you can find a copy of the picture.

Before continuing, Well Done to the non-profit for firing the woman.  Her actions, including staging and publicizing the photograph, were undeniably, indisputably across the line.  Some companies would not take this wholly appropriate action.  Well Done to Living Independently Forever (LIFE).

Once my visceral reaction to the photograph passed, a deep concern set in.  First, the visceral reaction.  The last time I was at Arlington, it was to attend the funeral (with full honors) for a close friend and fellow Marine, who died as a result of exposure to Agent Orange during the Viet Nam War.  He'd served as an enlisted Marine, then went to college to earn his degree and receive a commission in the Marines.  An exceptional Marine, mentor to hundreds, and leader.  The ceremony included a Marine band, two platoons of Marines, an Honor Guard, rifle salute, and Army Caisson.   We walked behind horse drawn caisson to the grave site, listed to taps and the rifle volleys, and watched as my fellow Marine was laid to rest.  The lady's actions were an unspeakable offense to his honorable and faithful service to our nation, as they were to all those laid to rest among their comrades.

What possesses a young adult to act so horrendously?  Clearly it isn't something taken out of context, as the photo was obviously deliberate.  Does she not realize the freedoms she so dismissively enjoys were purchased by the blood of many of those laying in rest at Arlington?  

The above report includes what is described as a statement from this woman.  "We never meant any disrespect to any of the people nationwide who have served this country and defended our freedom so valiantly."

It is my sense the woman believes there are no consequences for her actions, that she is not responsible for them.  If my sensing is correct, it provides for tremendous concern if this is indicative of the belief of some younger members of our society.

Despite the statement, the woman can not be forgiven.  She appears to be one of many who believe that they can take any action, no matter how egregious or offensive, then be excused by insincerely saying "sorry, my bad."  No responsibility taken for her actions.  If she is truly remorseful for this exceptionally horrific act, then I await her actions demonstrating that remorse.  Perhaps she can volunteer thousands of hours at a VA hospital; volunteer to place the American flag at thousands of graves of our fallen for Memorial Day; volunteer to serve thousands of hours as a docent at a military cemetery; volunteer for thousands of hours at one of the numerous non-profits supporting our wounded and veterans.

Until or unless she takes action as indisputably respectful of the fallen, as her actions were undeniably disrespectful, her supposed statement rings hollow.  In life, we are responsible for our actions.  It is time for this woman to take that responsibility and take action that demonstrates her embracing responsibility for this despicable act.   

 (Wonder why Obama hasn't commented upon it?  He seems compelled to comment on so many other issues unrelated to the office of President, why isn't he commenting now?  Does he hold the military fallen and their families in less regard than a college professor?)