"A Moving Memorial"

There is a car in New Jersey that has recently recieved some pretty substantial press coverage. This car is vibrant, bright, and has the names of the American soldiers who have died in the Iraq war all over it. I have had the honor of driving this car. It was a very interesting time and scenario to observe human behavior.

While in this car, you cannot help but notice the people gawking. Literally, people will turn in their seats as you drive by. If the car is parked, it inevitably attracts at least one person-- even in the rain. Some people make it a point to verbalize their sentiments. Some say sinmple things like "I like your car," while others feel the need to express true emotion that the car seems to stir in them. Some agree with the car-- which is not only a "Moving Memorial," but also a form of silent protest-- while some markedly do not. Usually, people just seemed stunned. When people do dislike the car they rarely make it a point to say so-- usually you can see them turn in away (in disgust? anger? shame?). People who agree often do make it a point to express said sentiment, which is why the owner of the car carries a journal-- to allow people touched by the car to express their experience.

One of the most intersting reactions I saw while driving the car occurred just outside a supermarket in Southern New Jersey. "It is by the way" a woman hissed at me in the parking lot as she entered the store. She was responding to the bold question plastered across the front windshield: "Is this War worth it?"

Please feel free to see the car at www.wegrieveourdeadtroops.com