Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014 Editorial • Make sure you say thank you to a veteran today

Publisher’s note: This editorial originally appeared in the Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014 edition of the Lassen County Times.

Unfortunately, the war to end all wars — World War I — did not. Today, on Veterans Day, we honor those who served their country in the armed forces of the United States.

The World War II veterans, members of what has been called America’s Greatest Generation, have reached their senior years. America entered the war in December 1941 after the attack on Pearl Harbor and in less than four years our country and its allies defeated the German and Italian fascists and the Japanese.

In the 1950s men and women in uniform served in Korea, a conflict many consider has been nearly forgotten. In the 1960s and early 1970s, our veterans also served in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Many veterans of that era believe a thankful nation did not welcome them home or properly recognize their service.

And there have been other conflicts in the ensuing years, most recently in Iraq and Afghanistan. We should recognize those veterans as well.

Here in Susanville and Westwood, we remember those who currently serve in the military. Who can miss the Blue Star Mothers banners on Main Street as a constant reminder of the brave local men and women who volunteer to put themselves in harm’s way when the country calls?

We honor those who died on Memorial Day, but on Veterans Day we honor living veterans.

Let’s make Veterans Day special this year by celebrating the sacrifice these brave warfighters have made.

Here’s a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you for your service.