Julia Arena

In chapter 4, Doss addresses the notion of gratitude in relation to memorials. One of the most interesting questions this chapter proposes is whether or not gratitude is appropriate and how. Upon completing the first half of the chapter, I definitely began to reevaluate the importance of gratitude and how it is portrayed in our society. For example, Doss mentions the American fascination with war porn, which can be seen through blockbuster films in theaters, video games, and several memorials. The National D-Day memorial in Bedford, Virginia is one memorial that can act as one of the memorials that feeds the American thirst for a triumphant, heroic, and romanticized view of war. The memorial strives to bring viewers back to the war-ridden beach of Normandy through the display of old weapons and sound effects. Though such a display does create an emotional experience for viewers, it also provides a glorified view of war. Tourists and visitors may believe they have essentially grasped the terrors, atrocities, and devastation seen in Normandy, but they will never actually know what it was like to be there in person. This same false sense of understanding can be seen through the increasing production and popularity of war games like Call of Duty. To ensure their survival, gamers must strategically navigate through explosions and attacks set in World War II scenes. Though the character in the game may get shot, lose an ally, suffer an explosion, or die, the gamer does not die or suffer any deep emotional damage. These games, memorials, and films only fuel the, “giddy romance with all things war” that we see in American culture (Doss, 220). While these images can draw a sense of anxiety, there is almost a greater focus on the amusement and pleasure that viewers feel.

            Doss also touches on how many use gratitude as a tool to erase and relieve tensions. For instance, the Vietnam War caused a great deal of tension in American society and politics. Many troops returned from war only to be criticized for their efforts. The grand showing of gratitude by creating the Vietnam Memorial in D.C. is a way of apologizing and compensating for any lack of support previously shown. Apology monuments like the Vietnam Memorial are necessary for a stable society because they are step towards making amends. Though memorials done to appease tensions or act as an apology, “thanks are given in anticipation of benefits” (Doss, 195).

            Lastly, one final interesting point made by Doss is the increasing number of memorials for Vietnam’s Dogs of War. They are being honored for their dedication, sacrifice, and loyalty to our country. Though it is a touching subject, these dogs raised the idea of forgotten heroes. If we have forgotten dogs that have sacrificed their lives for us, who else have we overlooked. In addition, who are the many fallen or unnoticed heroes who have not been honored for their courageous actions?