I'm sure there are many people in this country who don't know or care that Veterans Day is Nov. 11. If you're fortunate enough to have been born in this country, or came here from other countries to live your dreams, you should care.

We salute our brave men and women in uniform, particularly those serving in harm's way in Iraq and Afghanistan, because this is the meaning of Veterans Day, to celebrate and honor our military, both past and present.

I particularly want to pay tribute to all our Reserves and National Guard. Before Iraq and Afghanistan became battle zones, these so-called "weekend warriors" joined to gain another paycheck — not that they weren't patriotic. After completing their basic training and boot camps, they were in uniform one weekend a month and two weeks in the summer. Whoever thought they would be thrust into combat situations? We have to look at them in a different light now; they've turned into heroes, fighting for our freedom, many being wounded and some paying the ultimate sacrifice.

This has all come about because our allvolunteer military has been spread too thin; many personnel are being deployed for multiple tours. I hate to say this, but the Selective Service, the draft, may have to be instituted once again, dare I say shades of Vietnam. I certainly hope not. I myself was drafted and served in Vietnam. It can disrupt many young lives, but the possibility is certainly there.

Of course, I'm not forgetting our allvolunteer military — they are the greatest and most patriotic group of people in the world. Their pride and love of country is second to none

So God bless our troops in the Army Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard — we support you 110 percent and we hope and pray for your safe return.

Jerry Noonan Veterans of Foreign Wars

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