Anti-war Groups Politicize Memorial Day

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Anti-War Groups Accused of Politicizing Memorial Day
By Nathan Burchfiel
CNSNews.com Staff Writer
May 27, 2007

(CNSNews.com) - Anti-war groups and at least one Democratic presidential candidate are planning to hold protests and demonstrations on Memorial Day, a decision that prompted veterans' groups to accuse them of politicizing a day meant to honor fallen American troops.

Former Sen. John Edwards (D-N.C.) came under fire earlier for encouraging his supporters to use Memorial Day celebrations as an outlet for an anti-war message. Through a campaign website and videos posted online, Edwards encouraged supporters to "speak out, to gather together, reclaim patriotism."

"Make it clear that we support the troops, we want to honor their sacrifice, that we are incredibly thankful as a nation for what they've done for us and their service in Iraq," Edwards said.

"And the best way to honor their service and the best way to support them is for the president of the United States to do what America has demanded to be done, and that's to end this war," he added.

Several anti-war groups have answered Edwards' call and will hold Memorial Day events to protest the war.

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"We Americans need to remember why Memorial Day is special," he said. "It's not about picnics or trips to the beach. It's not about making pro- or anti-war statements. It's not about supporting political candidates. It's about honor, duty and the ultimate sacrifice. It's about people who have decided that the United States is worth dying for."