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The Toll Of Wars, Past And Present

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: May 26, 2008

Memorial Day is for the hundreds of thousands of Americans who have given their lives for their country and lie in cemeteries around the globe or in some unmarked, forgotten places.

Some died centuries ago fighting for freedom against British redcoats. Others died decades ago fighting the forces of evil in Europe and the Pacific, Korea and Vietnam.

But today we should especially honor the more than 4,000 American men and women who've given their lives in the Iraq War, protecting innocent people in a troubled land.

However you feel about the war, Memorial Day is about the people who serve - or gave their lives in service of - their country. Just recently, this region mourned the loss of Army Sgt. Marcus C. Mathes of Zephyrhills, who died in a Baghdad firefight on April 28.

With the war in its fifth year, it's especially fitting to remember the teenagers who are fighting their first battles as well as the seasoned veterans who are serving their third or fourth tour in Iraq.
Memorial Day is about more than keeping history alive. On this day of respect for our war dead, let us especially laud the bravery and sacrifice of those in fresh graves.

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