Bob Crum

All photos by Bob Crum.

Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.

In my travels, I find that many people still confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. The Old Farmer's Almanac pens: “While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is the day to thank and honor ALL who served—in wartime or peacetime—and whether they died or survived.”

The Old Farmer's Almanac again: “The wearing of red poppies in honor of America’s war dead is traditionally done on Memorial Day (not Veterans Day). The origin of the red poppy as a modern-day symbol of this day was actually the idea of an American woman, Miss Moina Michael.”

The practice of wearing of poppies was further inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields,” written in 1915 by Canadian soldier John McCrae. He saw the poppies in burials around his artillery position in Belgium.

While some cities and towns host Memorial Day parades each year, a great many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials such as the annual Memorial Day service presented at the Bardsdale Cemetery.

After years of documenting this ceremony I'm familiar with the program. However, decisions still need to be made second-by-second. As a photojournalist, the goal is to tell a story with each photo. Simple? Not! Compose an overview or zoom in tight on the speaker? Feature the speaker with the flag in the frame as a vertical composition or... horizontal? Remember to shoot ONLY when the flag is extended by the breeze. Wait for it! Alas the flag is extended but good grief, the speaker is looking down. Speaker... LOOK UP... please! If your were to record my thoughts during a shoot, you would have to “R” rate them!

I like to arrive at the venue a little early in order to mentally make a shooting plan. Will the Boy Scouts arrive from stage left? Where will taps be played. Where will the doves be released. Throughout the service I have to move frequently within limitations to be in the best position for a photo with the best perspective. On scene, I frequently shoot instinctively having learned that by the time I think about what to do... it's too late! However, instinct is not foolproof. Bushwhacked often by unexpected turn of events. Tip: Stay loose and be ready!

I planned to catch a muzzle flash when the VFW members fired their rifles. Programmed camera's slow burst mode. Upon hearing the commander yell fire, pressed the shutter button triggering eight rapid photos. Did this for all three rounds. Twenty-four photos but not one muzzle flash! Ugh! After the fact, no doubt I should have programmed 'fast burst mode'. Next year!

Speaking of plans, before the ceremony I spoke with the person releasing the doves requesting not to release them until I get in position. I explained that I'll be on the other side photographing the bugle player and gun volley and it will take a minute to get over to you. He nodded in agreement. Didn't happen! As soon as the gun volley was done, I hustled to get into position. He released them before I was ready. I had to abruptly stop and shoot. I can't mention my unmentionable thoughts.

Nevertheless, a great Memorial Day service and glad to see it so well attended by so many local folks. Kudos to the staff and Board of the Bardsdale Cemetery. Well done!

Send your comments, questions or suggestions to: bob@fillmoregazette.com