Frontiersman seeks help in recognizing U.S. troops

Frontiersman editorial board

As we do with white noise and persistent smells, we sometimes have a tendency to grow accustomed to, and to tune out, some of the unpleasant issues facing our society -- especially when those issues or circumstances do not directly affect us. For several months after the tragedies of 9/11, our national collective consciousness ran at an intense level, and we were a country united, at least in our sense of national mourning.

As the war in Afghanistan and then the war in Iraq progressed through the stages of imminent action to engagement, we were collectively transfixed by the uncertainty of conflict. Certainly, some people supported the use of military force in the Middle East, and others opposed it. Still, most people shared concern for our troops, and for innocent people trying to survive in the war-ravaged countries.

Now that war has become a regular part of our reality, we run the risk of taking it in stride. We run the risk of becoming numb to the hardships and tremendous risks and suffering that our troops and so many people in the region must endure daily. It is critical for us to remember that war is not white noise.

It is imperative that we not become lulled by the calm voices of news anchors who are discussing things that are anything but calm -- or normal.

We still have large numbers of young men and women serving overseas. Some of the troops who took part in the earliest stages of the war are now being re-trained and are preparing to return for a second tour in a place many of them would likely just as soon never see again. It's important that we continue to remember them, and that we never lose sight of the fact that this conflict, whether you agree with the policy behind it or not, has human consequences.

Last year Frontiersman published an ongoing list, called Roll Call, of Valley people serving in the military. As Memorial Day approaches, we would like to publish the list again through the end of May. The list will also be read as part of a special ceremony scheduled for May 11 at the new Multi-Use Sports Complex in Wasilla.

If you know someone serving in the military, whether they are currently taking part in the war or not, please send their name and hometown to Frontiersman to be included in Roll Call -- also include your phone number for verification. You can e-mail the names to editor@frontiersman.com, fax them to 352-2276 call us at 352-2267 or 2268 or simply drop them by the office.