By Jane Palen
A dilemma faced us as we planned this yearís veteranís section. Although our special veterans section is meant to honor all veterans, living and dead, we also like to interview veterans for their perspective.

The number of living veterans who fought in World War II and Korea is declining. In the past, weíve told their stories in this section. We thought that perhaps because there are getting to be so few, we should feature several more from that era.

On the other hand, today we are mired in a war in the Middle East that has shades of Vietnam. This time terrorism, not communism, is the enemy. We thought that men who fought in Vietnam might bring a relevant perspective to the current conflict, and we were right. Vietnam vets Lambert Staggemeyer and Kevin Kelleher see may similarities between Vietnam and Iraq.

As Veteransí Day approaches, we want to recognize all veterans for their willingness to serve. It is especially important after this divisive presidential election that we as a country are still united by the ideals of democracy, even though we have different ideas on how those ideals are best served.

There are people who feel that criticizing the present war is the same as criticizing the soldiers who are fighting it. Itís because of veterans that we are able to express our opinions, question our government, cast our vote.

Itís a little ironic that the men and women who fight for our rights and our freedom have to give up so much of their own. A soldier doesnít pick his wars. They are picked for him, and he follows orders. A private citizen might oppose the war loudly and fiercely, while the soldier quietly goes to war and does his best.

The country may be divided in its view on the war, but it can be united in its respect and support of the troops called to action. And we can be united in our gratitude to all the men and women who served. And we can all be united in our hope for peaceóit is, perhaps, the soldiers more than anyone who harbor that hope.