Posted on May 26, 2015
PO3 Steven Sherrill
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Vader memorial
(This failed to post from Mobile device yesterday)

I found this art on Facebook, and there was a rather heated argument as to whether it was appropriate or just plain disrespectful. I decided I wanted to get the opinion from the perspective of those who serve, or have served. The only thing I ask is please don't disrespect anyone else if you disagree with them.

(Edited because forgot to attach image on initial post.)
Posted in these groups: Star wars logo Star WarsMd Memorial Day
Edited >1 y ago
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SGT David T.
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The Star Wars dork in me loves this. I think the symbolism the artist uses is powerful because although we associate the Galactic Empire as evil, and probably the Stormtroopers that served it did not. They served their state as many of us have. So I think it is more of a reflection on the fallen Soldiers regardless of the state they served. How many people in the world, including our own people view our government as evil? At the end of the day a Soldier is something special regardless of the government they serve. We experience things that only other Soldiers can understand. We see bonds form even among former enemies. Just look at a lot of the gatherings at Pearl Harbor. I firmly believe that nothing can defile the sacrifices made by so many. No work of art will ever take away the importance of what they did. Although, I do think that the artist probably could have use a bit different symbolism to get the desired effect.
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TSgt David Holman
TSgt David Holman
>1 y
Well put. I was trying to find a way to say exactly this.
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PO3 Nichalas Enser
PO3 Nichalas Enser
>1 y
Nicely stated, SGT David T. .

At first glance, it may appear to be disrespectful, to some, but if you know the general story of the SW series and of the U.S., to me, it shows a commander remembering the fallen. To others, it may mean something different, but that is why it is 'art' even if not a classical form.

Would like to see a few more of the folks involved in the 'leadership' of the various campaigns display their sentiments, as well. Not that many do not, clearly, show their support for the efforts of the forces under their command, but, overall, the U.S. has some work to do to put some force behind that 'support'. It is great to hear folks say 'thank you for your service' (when they appear to mean it) but when those same folks go on to not fully support - or work to cut - the pay and benefits of those on AD, in the reserves, those injured or wounded, and all others is, definitely, shameful.
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CDR Michael Goldschmidt
CDR Michael Goldschmidt
>1 y
Great comment, SGT David T. ! Remember, too, that Imperial Storm Troopers were clones, raised by the state and indoctrinated since birth, so they could hardly have been expected to have perspective. Then again, there ARE parallels with those of us who attended government (public) schools.
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SGT Team Leader
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This is art, art has been controversial from the beginning. Its not real, obviously meant as a joke. People need to quit being offended over everything that they disagree with. We all dont think alike...therefore realistically we can never 100% be on the same page and get along. Reminds me of the "Feelings Hurt Document". If you dont have thick skin the Military might not be the best place for you...after all we fight everyday for the right of the people to have freedom. Once we start limiting freedom because someone is offended of feelings are hurt then we no longer stand for what is right and or our citizens freedom. Toughen up. Why would we want to linit a right we die for?
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SGM Mikel Dawson
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I don't think it's in bad taste. If we look at Darth Vader, in the end he over came evil and was good. To me this is the new Darth Vader who is now sorry for the loss of men under his command when he was over powered by the dark side. He is now truly sorry for the loss.
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SGT Richard H.
SGT Richard H.
>1 y
I like your take on this....It made me stop and think before deciding what I really thought of it.
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SSG (ret) William Martin
SSG (ret) William Martin
>1 y
I just got emotional.
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SSG Mark Ives
SSG Mark Ives
>1 y
I'm originally from the steel pot era, where when we first got our Kevlar helmets we thought it was a cross between the German WWII helmets and Darth Vader's helmet. People are going to perceive it how they feel it, positive or negative, good or bad. If it was so negative or evil, IMHO, Darth wouldn't be worried about his storm troopers. Tend to agree with the Sergeant Major!
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CDR Michael Goldschmidt
CDR Michael Goldschmidt
>1 y
Let's also remember that Obi-Wan left Aniken Skywalker to die a horrible death. He didn't even put him out of his misery, but just left him to burn. I'd be a little pissed off, too.
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