Opportunities abound to honor our veterans

From its humble 19th century beginnings as a day for remembering Civil War dead, Memorial Day has evolved into the three-day extravaganza we know it as today. Perhaps better known now for backyard barbecues and family fishing outings than for its traditional meaning, the last Monday in May is still the official time set aside to honor and remember all those who have given their lives in defense of liberty.

In recent years, with U.S. troops actively engaged in conflicts around the globe, the day has taken on more immediacy. Additionally, newspaper obituary pages are routinely filled with the death notices of members of &#8220The Greatest Generation,” World War II veterans, whose contribution to the history and progress of both the nation and world is well documented.

In these troubling times, remembering what they did for us is essential. For all that we have, and all the values we hold most dear, we are indebted to those who fought - and died - that these values might be preserved.

To that end, we join Valley residents in remembering Sgt. Kurtis Arcala and Spc. Jacob Melson, departed sons who died in Iraq over the course of the last year.

Arcala, 22, died Sept. 11 near Balad, when a roadside bomb destroyed the Humvee in which he was riding, killing both the 2001 Palmer High School grad and his dream of becoming a teacher and mentor to young

students.

Melson, also 22 and recently married, was serving with the Alaska Army National Guard when he, three other Alaska soldiers and eight passengers lost their lives in a helicopter crash Jan. 7.

As we remember them and their service, we also honor their families for the sacrifice they made.

Of special note lately is the increased awareness of the service and sacrifice of soldiers who fought in the Vietnam war. For years, their own valor was unmarked, lost in the controversy that swirled around that conflict at home and abroad. But their service is no less worthy of honor.

In the coming days, Valley residents will have an opportunity to pay special tribute to those who served in the Vietnam conflict. The Moving Wall, a traveling half-size replica of the Vietnam veterans memorial in Washington, D.C., will make a six-day stop in Wasilla from Thursday through June 6.

&#8220All gave some, some gave all” is more than just a motto. It is fitting that these who went before us, and did so much for us, should be so recognized.

The best way to honor our fallen warriors is to never forget their sacrifice. When you see a veteran at a ceremony this weekend, or in the course of daily events throughout the rest of the year, don't forget to thank him or her for their service.