Veterans Affairs Ban Iconic World War II Photo

It’s one of the most iconic American photos ever taken. The “Kissing Sailor” captured a spontaneous and passionate moment in history. Taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt in Times Square on V-J Day (Victory over Japan Day) on August 14, 1945, the image features a sailor kissing a nurse in the midst of jubilant celebrations marking the end of World War II.

The identity of the individuals remained a mystery for years, fueling speculation and intrigue. Eventually, in 2012, the subjects were identified as George Mendonsa, a sailor, and Greta Zimmer Friedman, a dental assistant. The photograph came to symbolize the sheer exuberance and relief felt by the nation as the war finally came to an end.

Now, the Department of Veterans Affairs has banned the photo because liberal bureaucrats argue it promotes sexual assault. 

A new memo from the Assistant Under Secretary for Health and Operations at the Department writes in a memo that “The Department of Justice’s current definition of sexual assault includes any non-consensual sexual act or any act where the victim cannot consent. This definition is adhered to by the Department when applying our policies and guidance. By the VA’s no tolerance policy towards domestic violence, sexual harassment, and assault, as outlined in the VA Handbook 5979 and VHA Directive 5019.02(1), the VA is committed to eliminating these behaviors in our community. Employees have expressed discomfort with the display of this photograph, suggesting that its presence could be construed as a tacit endorsement of the inappropriate behavior it depicts. 

To foster a more trauma-informed environment that promotes the psychological safety of our employees and the Veterans we serve, photographs depicting the “V-J Day in Times Square” should be removed from all WHA facilities. This action reflects our dedication to creating a respectful and safe workplace and is in keeping with our broader efforts to promote a culture of inclusivity and awareness. 

In Celebrating the end of World War II and the valiant service of our Veterans, facilities should seek alternative photographs that capture the spirit of victory and peace without compromising the VA’s commitment to a safe and respectful environment.

EXCLUSIVE:

The Department Of Veterans Affairs just BANNED the V-J Day kiss photo from all department facilities.

"To promote a culture of inclusivity and awareness… your cooperation is vital." pic.twitter.com/MZfNHbpV76

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) March 5, 2024

The photograph has long been a target of feminists. During an interview, Greta Zimmer told the Library of Congress, “I was grabbed by a sailor and it wasn’t that much of a kiss, it was more of a jubilant act that he didn’t have to go back, I found out later, he was so happy that he did not have to go back to the Pacific where they already had been through the war. And the reason he grabbed someone dressed like a nurse was that he just felt very grateful to nurses who took care of the wounded.”

She continued to say, “I felt he was very strong, he was just holding me tight, and I’m not sure I — about the kiss because, you know, it was just somebody really celebrating. But it wasn’t a romantic event. It was just an event of thank God the war is over kind of thing.”

Greta was not particularly bothered by what happened. In 2009, she participated in a parade with Mendonsa to celebrate the iconic photograph.

For the record she was not that bothered by it.

George Mendonsa and Greta Friedman as guests of honor at the Bristol July 4, 2009 parade https://t.co/ymPSKPQB5Y pic.twitter.com/WSiUE1PM51

— Dave McW 🔵 (@DaveMc99TA) March 5, 2024

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