The Eighth Tribe, 1976 (3. évfolyam, 1-12. szám)
1976-12-01 / 12. szám
Page 8 THE EIGHTH TRIBE December, 1976 Ballad of 1956.” A portion of an intended inclusion of poetic rendition was later presented at an outdoor memorial, where a torch-led and candlelighted procession had wended its way through the dark night, located a short distance away and near Camp Kilmer —the place where Hungarian refugees of 1956 had arrived and were housed transitionally. This group-participatory happening was a most awesome experience, as the orderly, ‘though large, crowd walked together with dignity, hushed tones, reverently, some tearfully, and undeterringly, while trodding on ground that had been their first main contact with the “free” soil of a much-cherished and idealized land of hopeful democracy. The ceremony in the crisp, dark night, illuminated by windblown flickering candles carried by the thousands of individual bearers, was most touching in a shared experience among Hungarian Americans and American Hungarians as well as quite soul-stirring, indeed, for one to be a part of such a simple, yet deeply-meaningful memorial observance—bringing forth varied associations, such as of All Souls’ Day on the first of November (a week and a day hence)! There were many who couldn’t hold back their emotions, shedding tears for recollections of heart-rending difficulties, shattered lives, destruction, disruption, memories of loved ones at home and experiences since those trying times of 1956. Outstanding in the crowd were some individuals in Hungarian attire of great workmanship and artistic beauty exemplifying their pride in Hungarian heritage. One woman and her young daughter were wearing csikós kabátok (horse-herders’ coats) of woolen felt with colorful appliqued designs and tasseled collars. It was pointed out that there was a great deal of time and patience that went into preparation of such a coat; that it was practical, warm, comfortable—-yet inexpensive compared to costs of other garments for the qualities involved. Closing tributes by way of floral wreaths and hand bouquets were placed by various organizations and loving individuals to the remembrance of the 1956 freedom fight together with the persons who died therewith, whose graves in the latter instance may not be adorned with these symbolic gifts of devotion. The Reverend Julian Fuzer, St. Ladislaus Church, New Brunswick, N.J., gave a stirring prayer of remembrance as well as dedication for all individuals involved and affected—then and now —for the love of freedom. Other dignitaries present were The Reverend and Mrs. Imre Bertalan, Magyar Reformed Church, New Brunswick, N. J., among other clergy, plus Anthony Yelencsis, former Mayor of Edison Township, N.J. In conclusion, the Hungarian national anthem was then sung by the group as well as a derivative in Hungarian of the Apostle’s Creed. Afterward, all proceeded, with candles still lit, to retrace their steps, meditatively —almost reverently—as in fulfillment of a small bit of participation for this instance of memorable import in time and point. —M. Takacs Barboe Letter to the Editor: — November 21, 1976 Mr. Sándor E. Chomos c/o The Eighth Tribe Ligonier, Pennsylvania 15658 Dear Mr. Chomos: I have always been interested in languages. So I enrolled in a Hungarian course. The teacher told us about the Eighth Tribe, and I became curious. So I inquired about getting a copy; and to my surprise, I received six of them from your office. Not liking to get something for nothing, I felt obligated to pay for them, and sent you a check. I am not of Hungarian descent. You probably have few, if any, non-Hungarian subscribers. Probably rather few people read magazines of any ethnic group other than their own. Perhaps more people ought to, though. (I’m not black either, but I sometimes glance at a copy of Jet or Ebony.) One of the issues you sent me had an article about a Hungarian man who fought in the American Revolution. It is really amazing how many ethnic groups were represented in the Revolution. Things like that can be interesting. I’ll look at those issues you sent me and decide whether or not to subscribe. With best wishes and sincere thanks for sending me those six issues, Daniel J. R. Weine
