ENTOMOLOGICAL NEWS 



PHILADELPHIA, PA., MAY, 1920. 



Remember the Veterans! 



A correspondent writes: 



It has occurred to me that the entomologists of this country should 

 in some way show their appreciation of those men whose active work 

 is ended, and not let them pass by, as is usually the case, until it is too 

 late. Dr. Behr and Prof. Rivers both passed away apparently forgotten 

 and (I cannot help feel) with just a little bitterness that their last days 

 should be passed in utter oblivion. The ending of Rivers was especially 

 sad for, after the death of his wife, to whom he was intensely devoted, he 

 began drinking heavily, merely as a means to hasten the end. Perhaps 

 just a bit of appreciation from those now active in the various fields of 

 entomology would have brightened his days, lessened the great sorrow 

 that came to him, and made him feel that his efforts had not been entirely 

 in vain. 



It seems to me that a day could be appointed when, each year, those 

 who have done their bit for the advancement of science could be remem- 

 bered and congratulated. A mere pittance from a few of us would be 

 sufficient to send to those who have retired a tribute in the way of flowers 

 and a two cent stamp would carry a written message of congratulation 

 and appreciation. I sincerely hope that my suggestion will lead to some- 

 thing along this line. 



We heartily approve of these sentiments and hope that 

 they may be carried into effect by individual action, even 

 if concerted effort does not obtain. The veteran to be cheered 

 would be most appropriately remembered on his own birth- 

 day. If one day in the year were appointed for this tribute 

 to -all the workers, the first suggestion which comes to us is 

 that of the birthday of Thomas Say, the "father of American 

 Entomology," July 27. That his natal day falls in a period 

 when many entomologists are in the field, away from home 

 and therefore not situated as to conveniently carry out this 

 kindly idea, makes the wisdom of such a choice doubtful. 

 We shall be glad to receive suggestions. 



