Editorial

Respect is the silver lining, Ags

By:

Posted: 12/2/08

Silver Taps is one of the most solemn and respected traditions at Texas A&M. Since 1898, the ceremony has been honoring fallen Aggies. On the first Tuesday of the month, those who wish to pay their respects join their Aggie brethren in Academic Plaza, united by the silence and reverence that bonds everyone in the A&M family together.

In the darkness, the shots of the 21-gun salute ring out loudly to the North, West and South. A bugle sextuplet plays "Taps" in these three directions, but never to the East, for the sun will never rise on these Aggies again.

We ask that everyone take this time, 30 minutes at most, out of their day to honor our brothers and sisters. This University prides itself on its dedication to ceremony, tradition, friendship, unity and family. This is a dedicated time for us all to join together and remember the deceased, provide support for those who survived them and show each other some compassion and respect.

The Battalion staff recognizes Silver Taps as a time-honored tradition. On those nights, whoever is in the newsroom will halt production to attend the ceremony together. It is always a moment of quiet reflection, peaceful thought and solemn ceremony, which is why September's Silver Taps was so disturbing to us.

Students were talking, text messaging during "Taps," shuffling and giggling, lighting up the pathways with their cell phones and making fun of each other during the ceremony. Such actions are incredibly disrespectful and rude, and it was disappointing to see fellow Aggies behaving in such a manner.

Let's not forget what Silver Taps is all about; consolation, peace, mourning, reflection, respect, honor. Remember who you are, and why you are there, and join the congregation Tuesday night as the considerate and esteemed Aggies we know you all are.