This Op-Ed appeared in the Memorial Day Issue of the Chattanooga Times Free Press
As State Director for Sierra Club Tennessee, I had little idea how deeply our Military Outdoors program would resonate with me until our pre-Memorial Day outing to Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Battlefield Park. But I should have known – Tennessee is home to so many incredible veterans.
Before we hit the trail, connections formed instantly within our group – a newer Tennessee member who served in two military branches and spent years in the infantry and as a Judge Advocate, the first Black woman to pilot both the CH-46E and MV-22 Osprey helicopter platforms and her 3 daughters, and folks representing the Navy, Army and Marines. While there was an immediate shared language and experience connecting those who did serve, I felt completely welcomed even as a civilian participant.
Conversations flowed effortlessly as we hiked. Veterans shared stories of military challenges, parenthood, and navigating life's changes with remarkable openness. Gazing from Point Park, we stood above the historic battlefield seeing a sky similar to what soldiers witnessed years ago. As we hiked to Sunset Rock through a shifting sky, from light blues to steady rain, each turn presented a new vista.
I couldn't help but think of my grandparents who served, and feel profound gratitude – both for their sacrifices and for finding myself in a role that brings people into community on public lands that hold our shared history.
Chickamauga & Chattanooga is just one of the many battlefield parks, memorials, and historic sites preserving parcels of our nation’s history. The best way to advocate for these parks is simple: Explore them! Enjoy them! And share your discoveries. This Memorial Day, please take advantage of the many amazing parks of Tennessee.