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It’s not just another day off

A time of reflection; a time of sorrow; a time of rejoicing.

ITD joins other state and federal agencies in observing Veteran’s Day on Friday, Nov. 11. But it’s more than another day off, an opportunity for a three-day weekend, a prelude to the holidays.

Veteran’s Day truly is an occasion for reflection.

Our nation’s roots were established through the sacrifice of Revolutionary War soldiers who believed in a cause much bigger than themselves, freedom from a tyrannical and oppressive England; the chance to establish a new nation founded on new ideals. The cause those Minutemen fought and died for has been paid for time and again through America’s 229-year history. Individuals who were willing to put their priorities, professions and possessions aside, serving shoulder-to-shoulder, against forces that would deny American citizens the freedom purchased at great price.

Veteran’s Day also is a time of sorrow.

Contributions are captured in the names carved on marble memorials, etched into headstones, indelibly written on the hearts of loved ones. A father or son, daughter or sister, whose presence is missing from class reunions and family gatherings ... Grieve for those who fought and perished.

And especially now, Veteran’s Day is a time of rejoicing.

Many of Idaho’s sons and daughters have been reunited with family and friends after serving in the Middle East. It is a heart-warming, emotion-evoking scene as spouses and children, parents and grandparents fill the airports anticipating the arrival of Idaho’s 116th from deployment in Iraq. Many families already have experienced the reunion; for others, the wait has been reduced to days or hours.

Regardless your political persuasion or personal views about the merit or ills of war, please take an opportunity this Veteran’s Day to shake the hand of those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Remember those who have served and suffered, those who have returned and those who never will. They are all special individuals.

Published 11-11-05