Finding ways to celebrate a loved one’s memory becomes vital for many after they pass away, as losing a loved one is always a tough event. While flower arrangements and other tributes are typical, there is a specific meaning associated with laying pennies on gravestones, especially for veterans and service members and their families.
A Tradition Worth Keeping
Though its exact roots are unknown, some have speculated that the custom of laying coins on gravestones originated during the Roman Empire. However, according to Snopes, there is insufficient evidence to back up this assertion. However, one thing is certain: people who have a strong bond with military people are aware of the sacrifices they make and are looking for a significant way to remember their lost colleagues.
It became increasingly difficult for people to express their emotions honestly during the Vietnam War. It became customary to place a coin on a soldier’s tomb to signify that someone had paid them a visit without running the danger of awkward talks regarding the political sides of the conflict. The gesture was a straightforward but effective way for people to express respect and unity.
Symbolic Honor Representations
Every penny placed on a gravestone has a special meaning associated with it. Here are few instances:
A penny is a sign that someone has paid their respects and visited the tomb.
Deeper emotional significance can be derived from a nickel, which represents a bond between the individual who left it and the dead soldier from boot camp.
A dime signifies cooperation, even if it was just briefly before splitting up.
The most important coin, the quarter, acts as a monument by informing the bereaved family that the person who left the coin was there during their time of grief.
These coins remind us of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military and act as tangible representations of respect and tribute, bridging the gap between the past and present.
Past Gravestones
Not all military traditions involve coins, such as placing money on gravestones. Military troops are big fans of challenge coins, which have no monetary worth but are extremely significant. These coins, which stand for oneness, are frequently traded as trophies of friendship and honor.
Throughout history, coins have also had a variety of roles in cultural practices. They have been regarded as representations of good fortune, giving, and even riches. While this isn’t always the case, some people in the past were buried with their riches. For instance, it’s been reported that two dollars and fifty cents were buried with Abraham Lincoln’s eyes covered.
The deeper significance of laying pennies on gravestones is to commemorate and recognize the extraordinary efforts made by those who are serving in the military and their families, even though there may not be a clear relationship between money and this practice. It serves as a reminder to ourselves that their sacrifices are priceless.
Richard Gere, 75, Steps Out with His Wife – But Everyone’s Talking About This Surprising Detail!
Even in his 70s, Richard Gere still makes women swoon. Earlier this month, he attended an event wearing a black tuxedo. His wife, Alejandra Silva, 41, joined him in a sparkling cream and silver dress.
The couple attended the Zurich Film Festival in Switzerland. Gere looked sharp in his black tux, white shirt, and bow tie.
Silva’s sleeveless dress showed off her toned arms and glowing skin. She wore silver heels, and together, they walked the red carpet arm-in-arm, looking very happy.
While many love the couple, some had different opinions. One person commented, “She’s much younger, but hey, it’s their life. I don’t like her dress here.”
Others noticed something else interesting. One person wrote, “I thought it was Julia Roberts,” while another said, “She kinda looks like Julia Roberts.”
These comments are even more intriguing because of the connection Gere has with Julia Roberts. The two starred together in the hit 1990 movie, *Pretty Woman*.
Just like the chemistry Gere had with Roberts on-screen, he shares the same spark with his wife in real life. Alejandra Silva has expressed her deep love for Gere, saying, “I never thought I’d find a man so perfect for me. I have no words to describe my happiness.”
She has also talked about their age difference, saying she doesn’t feel it because Gere is so active. In fact, she sometimes struggles to keep up with him! Silva humorously added, “He has promised me at least 20 good years!”
Silva also said that she gives Gere the stability he needs. She shared, “It helped that I wasn’t an actress or a model. I never had any interest in that. What has brought us closest is our desire to help others in need, our commitment to Buddhism, and our support for the Tibetan people.”
She mentioned that Gere appreciates and values her work as a humanitarian. Besides his wife, Gere is often joined by his son, Homer Gere, who he shares with his ex-wife Carey Lowell.
The father and son were recently seen arriving at the 81st Venice Film Festival by a small boat. A video shared on social media showed Gere and Homer happily waving to the cheering crowd.
We send our best wishes to Richard Gere, his wife, and his son. Share this with other fans of the actor who might want to learn more about his life and recent public appearances.
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