The human brain is a curious and capricious thing. It seems remarkably predisposed to blocking out as much negativity as possible while embracing the positive. That ability is not absolute but kicks in with alarming frequency.
A case in point is the book The Tattooist Of Auschwitz. It chronicles the factual account of an individual who, at the camp, became involved in both a temporary survival occupation and love. One would think a death camp and love would be contradictory. Perhaps they are. Yet, our brains allow us an amazing latitude of not only aversion but survival.
I thought of that with two new collectible items just released. One is a silver medal saluting the men and women of the Army. The other is a sheet of commemorative postage stamps depicting classic carnival rides. The two subjects are about as incongruous as possible....
The medal depicts a revolutionary-era soldier alongside a modern combatant. Both troops are carrying weapons of their day. Behind the figures are the words, “UNITED STATES ARMY.” In front of them is the inscription, “SINCE 1775.” (Not to split hairs but, technically, the army in 1775 was known as the “Continental Army.” According to the National Archives, Thomas Jefferson first used the term “United States” in 1776 in the Declaration of Independence. Just saying.)
The colonial fighter, replete with a tri-cornered hat and traditional uniform, is taking aim with his flintlock musket. The modern soldier, wearing a 21st century helmet and sunglasses, is carrying a far more lethal M-16 machine gun. Another notable difference is that the contemporary fighter is not only a woman but a black woman. The individuals showcase how dramatically times have changed.
The army medal is one in an ongoing series issued by the US Mint. Others celebrate the Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Struck from pure silver, the medal weighs one-ounce and is being sold for $75.
Given the implicit role of the military, I suppose it’s only logical to depict weapons of war on such a commemorative item. The curious disconnect between it and the sheet of “entertaining” stamps is how, during times of massive global hostilities and killing, many can lead comparative normal lives. There are certainly exceptions. Admittedly few, if any, in Gaza or so many middle eastern countries are currently leading what we in the US might define as “normal” lives.
Even during World War II, when military enlistments soared amidst food shortages and gas rationing, many lifestyles remained constant. It happened again during the Korean war and Vietnam. As war raged overseas, Americans still enjoyed ice cream, going to the movies, socializing in nightclubs and going to local carnivals. Juxtaposed to the image of conflict on the US Army silver medal is the colorful subject on the new postage stamps just issued showing the fun of local fairs and festivals.
The sheet of 20 “Forever” stamps contain images of ten different carnival rides. As much fun as they are during the day, such rides take on an entirely different feel at night when the colored fluorescent lights come on. Fairgoers know that’s when the most memorable magic begins.
On the sheet are nighttime visuals of such rides as: the Wave Swinger; the Ring of Fire; Gondola Wheel; Round-Up Ride; and a Carousel. Also shown are images of Midway food and game booths. All capture the color of carnivals. For almost a century, such events have taken place during times of war offering much needed diversions and escape.
For those living in the Midwest, the Postal Service is, in a fashion, going on the road this summer by attending and setting up banners promoting the stamps at various carnivals in Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin. In addition, a First Day of Issue ceremony is slated for June 6, at the South Mississippi Summer Fair in Biloxi, MS.
Though perhaps not a shrewd investment vehicle given the current price of silver, the silver Army commemorative medal would make a fitting and memorable gift for one who has served in that branch and provided freedom for others. For more information, check out the Mint’s website at www.USMint.gov.
In celebration of happier summers, the Magic of Carnival Nights stamps being issued are a great reminder of an enduring activity enjoyed by children and parents alike thanks to that freedom provided. It may seem like a disconnect but isn’t a bad way to kick off summer.
For more collecting information and advice, log on to: http://prexford.com/.