Heroes, all: Today is the day Americans remember, thank those who serve their country

They come from all walks of life and from every state in the union.

Many of them are still with us, some bearing the scars of battles fought long ago and others with fresh wounds. Still others, we can only honor in memoriam.

Veterans Day is our chance to say thank you to heroes -- men and women who have chosen a career of taking care of their country and the freedom protected and cherished by generations before them.

The work of this generation of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines does honor to the legacy left by those who took their lives in their hands as they battled evil across the world. The Greatest Generation should be proud of the new warriors -- the young men and women who understand just what it takes to be a member of the United States Air Force, Army, Marines or Navy.

We are as proud of the men and women who serve today as we are of those heroes of legend who paved the way. Their courage and dedication are inspiring.

There are many who do not understand that the contributions made by the American servicemen and women are the foundation for the freedoms we enjoy today. They take for granted the sacrifices that are made every day in their name.

Today is the day to reflect on the men and women who can proudly call themselves veterans and to acknowledge the scars they bear -- and the losses their families have suffered in freedom's name.

So, today, flags fly and hands go immediately to hearts as a grateful nation pauses to say thank you -- and to remember.

Published in Editorials on November 11, 2010 10:56 AM