During World War II, a photograph capturing a sailor kissing a woman in Times Square on V-J Day became an iconic symbol of celebration. However, a recent memo from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) ordered the removal of this photo from agency facilities, citing it as depicting a “non-consensual act.” The memo sparked controversy and raised questions about the VA’s stance on historical images.
The Memo and its Reversal
RimaAnn Nelson, the VA’s assistant secretary of health for operations, issued the memo on February 29, calling for the prompt removal of the photo. Nelson stated that the photo was “inconsistent with the VA’s no-tolerance policy toward sexual harassment and assault.” However, VA Secretary Denis McDonough intervened and declared that the photo could remain in VA facilities, emphasizing that it was not banned.
McDonough’s decision came after concerns were raised regarding the policy’s creation and rationale. House Veterans Affairs Committee Republicans praised McDonough’s action while expressing skepticism about the initial decision to potentially ban the photo.
Historical Significance
The iconic photo was taken on August 14, 1945, in New York City by photojournalist Alfred Eisenstaedt. It depicts a sailor kissing a woman, who appears to be wearing a nurse’s uniform. The identities of the couple remain unknown, but in 1980, former Navy quartermaster George Mendonsa and Greta Zimmer Friedman were asked to recreate the moment for Life magazine, believing them to be the original pair.
In a 2005 interview for the Veterans History Project, Friedman described the event as a jubilant act of gratitude. The sailor was relieved that he did not have to return to the Pacific, and he expressed his appreciation to nurses who cared for wounded soldiers. Friedman emphasized that the kiss was not a romantic gesture but a celebration of the war’s end.
Debates and Controversy
The decision to remove the photo from VA facilities was driven by debates on consent and the appropriateness of celebrating such images. Employees expressed discomfort with the display, suggesting that it could be seen as endorsing inappropriate behavior. However, the order’s approval, decision-making process, and the number of facilities displaying the photo remain undisclosed.
FAQs
Why was the WWII kissing photo ordered to be removed from VA facilities?
The VA issued the order to remove the photo due to concerns about its depiction of a “non-consensual act” and its inconsistency with the VA’s policy on sexual harassment and assault.
Who were the couple in the iconic photo?
The identities of the couple in the photo remain unknown. However, George Mendonsa and Greta Zimmer Friedman were asked to reenact the moment in 1980, believing them to be the original pair.
Why was there controversy surrounding the removal of the photo?
The decision to remove the photo sparked controversy as it raised questions about the VA’s stance on historical images and whether the photo should be considered inappropriate or a celebration of the war’s end.
Conclusion
The iconic WWII kissing photo, capturing a sailor’s jubilant act of celebration, has been the subject of recent debate within the VA. While a memo initially ordered the photo’s removal, Secretary Denis McDonough intervened, allowing it to remain in VA facilities. The controversy surrounding the decision reflects the ongoing discussions about consent and the appropriateness of historical images. As society evolves, perspectives on such iconic moments continue to shape our understanding of history and its representation.
