Topic: Cemeteries

President Trump has proposed the construction of a 250-foot "Triumphal Arch" on Columbia Island in Washington D.C. to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America's founding. The structure, which would be taller than the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, has faced legal challenges from veterans and historians concerned about traffic and the obstruction of views between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. Critics have labeled the project "gauche," comparing it to Trump's previous hotel developments.

A discussion on personal dental health and the confusion caused by listener medical advice leads into a history of Memorial Day. Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday was established to honor those who died in military service by decorating their graves with flowers and flags. The hosts contrast the holiday's solemn origins with its modern association with retail sales and mattress promotions.

President Joe Biden formally announced the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan by September 11, 2021. The segment covers international reactions, the Taliban's threats regarding the May 1st deadline, and the potential impact on women and girls in the region.

A secondary George Carlin routine suggests plowing up cemeteries to use the land for housing and the remains for phosphorus in farming. Carlin mocked the "superstitious medieval" practice of preserving the dead in prime real estate. The hosts discuss Carlin's angry comedic era in the late 2000s and his extensive discography.

The Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles is noted for its high concentration of celebrity graves, including Marilyn Monroe and Jack Lemmon. Many of the tombstones feature humorous epitaphs or "Hollywood jokes," such as Jack Lemmon's simple "Jack Lemmon in" inscription. The cemetery is described as an obscure but fascinating landmark for those interested in film history.

Floodwaters in Louisiana caused coffins to float down streets, a recurring issue in New Orleans due to the high water table and above-ground burials. Historical research into Civil War veteran John Bell Hood revealed that most interments in the area are in crypts rather than traditional graves. The structural integrity of these crypts is often compromised during major flood events, leading to the macabre sight of displaced remains.

The hosts criticize the general public and media for confusing Memorial Day with Veterans Day. They argue that the holiday should focus exclusively on honoring those who died in military service, rather than living veterans, and criticize the Google Doodle and news anchors for missing this distinction.

Following the Ottawa shooting, security is increased at Arlington National Cemetery, which the hosts mock as "protecting the dead." CBS correspondent Bob Orr reports that while there is no direct link to a broader plot, the FBI is warning local police about "lone wolf" retaliatory attacks. The hosts argue the narrative is designed to shift public focus from Ebola back to Islamic terrorism.

President Barack Obama faces criticism for playing golf at Fort Belvoir on Memorial Day after a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington Cemetery. Adam Curry expresses frustration that the mainstream media ignored the event, viewing it as an insult to fallen soldiers.

The hosts discuss the observation of Veterans Day and the closure of banks and postal services. They criticize the United States Congress for taking a week-long recess after working only a day and a half. C-SPAN programming during the break is noted for featuring committee meetings on Arlington National Cemetery financing.

The passing of Senator Ted Kennedy prompts a discussion regarding media coverage of flag-draped coffins and his burial at Arlington National Cemetery. Potential successors for the Massachusetts Senate seat are analyzed, including Michael Dukakis and Carolyn Kennedy. The hosts recall Dukakis's failed presidential run and the infamous tank photograph that damaged his public image.

A squirrel in Port Huron, Michigan, has been observed stealing small American flags from a local cemetery to decorate its nest. The behavior has led locals to jokingly refer to the animal as a "patriot squirrel."