A final salute: Service members' loss in Florida a time to remember risks

When we think about sacrifice and our military, the image that pops up is usually that of a man or a woman in combat facing an enemy overseas.

Then we hear stories like the crash in the waters off the coast of Florida that claimed the lives of 11 service members -- seven of them elite Marines.

And we pause.

The news of this tragic accident should make us think about the risks that those who serve their country face -- and the commitment and training that are required to be considered among the most elite of those warriors.

It is not a matter of simply putting on a uniform and being handed a gun -- or assigned to a fighter jet.

The stripes and stars on their uniforms represent more than just a number of years of service. They represent years away from loved ones, bravery on the field that no one might ever really know or acknowledge and a courage that comes with a love of country and a promise to protect those who cannot protect themselves.

It is, ultimately, about honor.

So when we lose even one of these men and women, our hearts should pause to acknowledge how much they gave.

And to remember the thousands of them every day who are continuing to train to be there if and when we need them.

Published in Editorials on March 13, 2015 10:56 AM