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| Image from google.com |
In honor of this Veterans Day (which is being considered extraordinary because of the date being 11/11/11), Google's Doodle (the term for when the site incorporates its logo into a design on special occasions) is a picturesque painting-style image of a tree with a yellow ribbon representing the "L" while the rest of the letters are wispy clouds in a blue sky.
An ABC news report today by Ned Potter identifies the artist of this watercolor as Google staff member Michael Dutton, whose dad is a Vietnam veteran. The report also explains that this painting is to raise awareness for a new project Google is working on to connect veterans with each other and their families after service. More information on the project can be found at http://www.googleforveterans.com/. Part of it will be a special section of the Google+ social network called "Vet Connect." This feature is highly anticipated by vets who are looking to gain contact with fellow comrades from their battle lines.
I think Google's plan is a fantastic one. With all the ways people use the internet for bad or just superficial things, this is an example of how the internet can actually make a positive difference in people's lives. My fear is that older vets who may not have technology skills or equipment might be left out, but I would hope that Google would find ways to include them perhaps through local libraries. I see this idea as one that other companies may want to and should get involved in, in the future. It is important for us to stop and remember all those who have served for us, and Google is showing that even the simplest doodle can raise awareness and contemplation.
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