Finding ways to celebrate a loved one’s memory becomes vital for many after they pass away, as losing a loved one is always a tough event. While flower arrangements and other tributes are typical, there is a specific meaning associated with laying pennies on gravestones, especially for veterans and service members and their families.
A Tradition Worth Keeping
Though its exact roots are unknown, some have speculated that the custom of laying coins on gravestones originated during the Roman Empire. However, according to Snopes, there is insufficient evidence to back up this assertion. However, one thing is certain: people who have a strong bond with military people are aware of the sacrifices they make and are looking for a significant way to remember their lost colleagues.
It became increasingly difficult for people to express their emotions honestly during the Vietnam War. It became customary to place a coin on a soldier’s tomb to signify that someone had paid them a visit without running the danger of awkward talks regarding the political sides of the conflict. The gesture was a straightforward but effective way for people to express respect and unity.
Symbolic Honor Representations
Every penny placed on a gravestone has a special meaning associated with it. Here are few instances:
A penny is a sign that someone has paid their respects and visited the tomb.
Deeper emotional significance can be derived from a nickel, which represents a bond between the individual who left it and the dead soldier from boot camp.
A dime signifies cooperation, even if it was just briefly before splitting up.
The most important coin, the quarter, acts as a monument by informing the bereaved family that the person who left the coin was there during their time of grief.
These coins remind us of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military and act as tangible representations of respect and tribute, bridging the gap between the past and present.
Past Gravestones
Not all military traditions involve coins, such as placing money on gravestones. Military troops are big fans of challenge coins, which have no monetary worth but are extremely significant. These coins, which stand for oneness, are frequently traded as trophies of friendship and honor.
Throughout history, coins have also had a variety of roles in cultural practices. They have been regarded as representations of good fortune, giving, and even riches. While this isn’t always the case, some people in the past were buried with their riches. For instance, it’s been reported that two dollars and fifty cents were buried with Abraham Lincoln’s eyes covered.
The deeper significance of laying pennies on gravestones is to commemorate and recognize the extraordinary efforts made by those who are serving in the military and their families, even though there may not be a clear relationship between money and this practice. It serves as a reminder to ourselves that their sacrifices are priceless.
Wisconsin Dairy Queen Puts Up ‘Politically Incorrect’ Sign, Owner Stands By His Decision
A message left on the front window of a Dairy Queen restaurant in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, garnered attention and is currently making waves on the internet. The billboard prominently displays the restaurant’s political incorrectness and calls attention to the fact that it often employs holiday greetings like “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Easter,” and “God Bless America.” Additionally, it shows support for the
They receive complimentary sundaes, the US flag, and expressions of gratitude for their military service on Veterans Day.
In defense of the placard, restaurant owner Kevin Scheunemann stated that it was put up nearly four years ago to be transparent about his and the staff’s dedication to serving God and the nation. According to Scheunemann, he put up the sign in response to a customer’s grievance against Christian music being played in the restaurant. Since then, the sign hasn’t caused any further issues.
The sign has gained more attention recently when an Oregonian tourist posted a picture of it on Facebook and expressed concerns about the message’s alleged exclusivity. The original post attracted a lot of attention before it was taken down.
While some people support the message on the sign, others have taken offense at the person who shared the image and voiced their opinions. However, Scheunemann’s choice to put the sign is supported by local business owners, who say that customers are free to leave the restaurant if they disagree with its principles.
The people living in the little village of Kewaskum seem to read the sign as the owner’s statement of beliefs and take it at face value. According to Dairy Queen’s official statement, Scheunemann’s approach is not endorsed by the company, and the sign only conveys the proprietor’s beliefs. The company stated that all franchisees and staff members are required to treat customers with respect and decency, regardless of their religious beliefs.
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