Three notable dates occur in the coming week: Election Day, the birthday of the United States Marine Corps, and Veterans' Day.  The latter two will be noted by traditional activities and ceremonies.  Military formations will be held.  Flags will be flown.  Birthday balls will be conducted.  Camaraderie will be shared.  These and countless other traditions will be observed. 

Tradition, particularly military tradition, is something civilians in general do not understand.  The current group of progressives in particular cannot comprehend its importance.  

For members of the military and veterans, our institutional traditions and beliefs make us strong, setting the tone for all who serve.  We were trained in the history and traditions of our services, not to indoctrinate, but to ensure that we understand the responsibility we undertook in safeguarding the valor, memories, victories, and sacrifices of those who went before us.  Our traditions reinforced the beliefs and imperatives of sacrifice, putting the welfare of our nation, service, unit, mission, and placing comrades above self.  Never let a fellow Marine down!

The current crop of progressives routinely attacks the military and its traditions.  Where they can, they seek to force change in our traditions – for example, doing away with Navy enlisted ratings.  They cannot appreciate that which they do not understand.  They put self above all else.  They seek personal power, influence, and financial wealth.  They seek to destroy those institutions built upon long histories of tradition, sacrifice, and service to the nation, because these long-serving institutions threaten their self-serving objectives.  They disparage those among us who willingly join to serve the nation, to embrace the traditions we learn, while understanding that to do so may lead to the ultimate sacrifice. 

As we celebrate, remember, and mourn, our traditions remain strong, even when under attack.  No politician without military experience will ever be able to understand this.