I opened an email from the Madison school district this morning to discover they were promoting an event which will be hosted by the Catholic church in Madison on Flag Day. I had a powerful, visceral reaction when I saw the image of young children (maybe 5 or 6 years old?) in camouflage, smiling. Then I wondered, “‘Junior Sapper’ What is a ‘sapper’?” So, I Googled it.
“‘Sappers are … combat engineers, trained to execute the most demanding and vital battlefield roles: An engineer leader that is an expert in mobility, countermobility and survivability.’ … That means clearing paths for friendly forces to maneuver, creating obstacles to slow or stop enemy advances, and building fortifications that protect Soldiers during battle. … Sappers also operate as infantry when needed, fully engaged in modern offensive, defensive and peacekeeping operations. ‘A sapper is really the cutting edge of the nation’s sword.'”
These little kids, labeled as “Junior Sappers” … “the cutting edge of the nation’s sword” … run through an obstacle course by soldiers … in a church parking lot … alongside bounce houses, dunk tanks, games, cotton candy, and popcorn. I am truly haunted by the thought of this.
God, have mercy on us.
1 comment
Steve, this flyer is such a perfect example the unholy fusion of faith and our military system that is celebrated in our country. We teach our children at such a young age that state endorsed violence is synonymous to patriotism. Lord have mercy, indeed!