Pandemic Gives Memorial Day 2020 a Different Look

Memorial Day 2020, marked by the global COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, looks different than usual with socially-distanced celebrations and ceremonies to honor fallen American soldiers. This Memorial Day, AllSides thanks the families of those who've given their lives serving the United States Armed Forces. News reports focused largely on how festivities nationwide were clashing with public health and social distancing guidelines. Voices throughout the spectrum, regardless of political bias, offered annual reflections on the importance of the U.S. military, and recalling its members who've died in the line of duty. Some compared essential healthcare workers to soldiers in battle, examining how each group is potentially subjected to mental health consequences and psychological trauma. Other voices took issue with the timing of a column published Saturday by the New York Times Editorial Board, titled "Why Does the U.S. Military Celebrate White Supremacy?".