Taking a 'Pause for Peace'
Ongoing war and strife in the world, coupled with attacks on U.S. military bases, led to a “Pause for Peace” Thursday at the Milwaukee County War Memorial Center.
“In pausing, we learn to slow down, recalibrate, and reflect on that which is meaningful and important. It also gives us a moment to calm ourselves and serves as a moment of respite.” Milwaukee VA Chaplain Robert Allen told about a dozen people assembled at the center’s Eternal Flame memorial.
“Today we pause for our U.S. military, our Veterans and for regional conflicts. We pause for those who are struggling to cope. We pause for our community. We pause for our nation. And today we pause for our world.”
The event, organized by the War Memorial Center in conjunction with the Milwaukee VA and the Southeastern Wisconsin Veteran Suicide Prevention Task Force, was meant to provide solace for those affected by wars in Israel and Ukraine and their residual effects.
War Memorial Center CEO Dan Buttery said there have been more than 100 attacks on U.S. military bases in the Middle East.
“It’s very sad, and I know the attacks are still happening,” he said, adding that the event was meant to “help those who are struggling right now” during the holiday season.
“For many of us, this is a time to rejoice,” Allen said. “But for some, the holiday season is a time of struggle. … Let this pause be for something that is meaningful for you. Let this pause be for those struggling with mental health, and for those who feel alone or abandoned or feel as if they have no sense of hope.”
With that, the assemblage took a moment of silence, as the flame flickered in the night air below an illuminated American flag, fluttering slightly over the War Memorial Center.
As the brief event ended, Buttery encouraged the attendees to reach out to those who may be hurting.
“Be there for them. Be their rock,” he said. “Be there for our fellow loved ones and family members.”