Final answer:
The presence of a soldier's body at a memorial ceremony is a tradition that symbolizes respect, honor, and fidelity within the military community, reflecting the ethos of never leaving a comrade behind and honoring the sacrifices made by soldiers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of a soldier's body at a memorial ceremony is a tradition steeped in respect and honor. This practice reflects the deep commitment of American soldiers to leave no comrade behind, as outlined in Figure 11.1.5. The act of bringing home the remains symbolizes the high regard in which soldiers hold the sacrifice of their peers, and it conveys a powerful message of unity and fidelity within the military community.
Moreover, as mentioned by a chairman of the American Battle Monuments Commission, who has firsthand knowledge of the heavy toll of war, there is a profound recognition of the value of each life lost and a commitment to honoring those who have fallen. This ethos is integral to understanding the cultural significance of military rites and the deep-seated need to provide solace to the families of the deceased, as they are continually reminded of their loss through communications with military organizations, as well as the cemeteries and memorials that hold the names of the fallen, like the Vietnam Memorial depicted in Figure 7-19.
Therefore, while not mandatory, the soldier's body's presence at a memorial service deeply resonates with these traditions and the ongoing process of nation-building and collective remembrance in the United States.