How We See It
An Endeavor Editorial

Yesterday, many people were given the day off, ostensibly to observe Veterans Day.

It could be argued that the government agencies, banks and other institutions that shut down on Friday were, in fact, taking advantage of this nation's veterans, rather than honoring them.

A truer measure of their appreciation will be evident today -- the real Veterans Day -- when many communities will hold Veterans' Day services.

Dominic DeFranco, Pa. State Commander for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, reminds us of that. Excerpts of his comments follow:

For some people, Nov. 11 is part of a three-day holiday weekend. Whether or not you get the benefit of the holiday, the 11th falls on a weekend day when most have the freedom to determine how they spend their time.

You've heard the expression, "Freedom is never free." If you are a veteran, you know what that means to lives and limbs, relationships and careers that have been sacrificed on freedom's behalf. If you have not been touched by these sacrifices, consider yourself blessed.

All Americans should make it a priority to attend Veterans Day ceremonies and say "thanks" to the veterans they see. After the holiday, you can show your ongoing support by contacting your U.S. congressmember and senators to demand that they fully fund the Veterans Administration health care network. All veterans deserve the care they were promised. Ridiculous patient backlogs must be eliminated.

You are losing your chance to thank our remaining World War II veterans. Many Korean War and Vietnam War veterans

say they have never had anyone thank them for serving our nation. Veterans of the first Gulf War and what we are now calling today's "War On Terror" deserve to hear that you appreciate living free from fear and oppression.

You may never have witnessed the tears shed or heart strains felt by men and women in uniform. Trust me: being shipped overseas to fight, or learning that your friend and loved one is not coming home or will be forced to cope with lifelong disability, leaves deep scars. They never fully heal.

Please display an American flag, shake a veteran's hand and support patriotic events. And don't forget those military service people of today who are becoming our country's newest veterans.

No citizens in any other nation have as much to be thankful for. If you enjoy your freedom, thank a veteran.