Highway of Heros Convoy - May 31/08

[maple_leaf_eh]

So if I read this story right, there are many groups and individuals working to raise respectful public awareness of our casualties. Good so far. Except, some families and wounded survivors object to use of their loved ones names and images. How can they expect the genie to go back in the bottle, when DND releases fatalities; names? That information is public knowledge, but the wounded are another story. Their cases should not be an open book, unless by choice.

I don't see how repeating a person's name is offensive, if the intent is for noncommercial purposes. The estates of celebrities make millions from the licensing musicians and movie stars faces and likenesses. But ordinary citizens who die, such as victims of criminals or highway accidents don't have the same protection. Invoking war casualties' memory may be well intended, but not always in good taste. I'm still undecided.

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

Originally Posted by maple_leaf_eh

I don't see how repeating a person's name is offensive, if the intent is for noncommercial purposes. The estates of celebrities make millions from the licensing musicians and movie stars faces and likenesses. But ordinary citizens who die, such as victims of criminals or highway accidents don't have the same protection. Invoking war casualties' memory may be well intended, but not always in good taste. I'm still undecided.

Terry, the whole problem with this organisation is that it's not a registered charity, ergo its activities may not be for "noncommercial purposes", regardless of their stated intentions. Its legitimacy has not yet been established.

Beyond that, it does seem rather strange that the names of the dead are painted on someone's car, to be seen rolling around the streets in years to come, potentially out-of-date [the list], dirty and rusting [the car].