With the tumult and ballyhoo of the current election cycle behind us, let's look to the future with a keen eye toward our past.

Our veterans stood tall when the threats of fascism, communism and terrorism threatened our security.

Their blind and unyielding dedication to defending democracy and freedom has continually helped preserve all we hold dear as American citizens.

As Veterans Day approaches this Sunday, thank a veteran who has served our country in any way you can. Take time to reflect on the importance of revering the great generations of citizens who have dedicated their lives to upholding the Constitution and providing security and peace.

Elections come and go and, while things get crazy for a little while, even creating divisions in our society between the left and the right, the blue and the red, let us all remember to revere the dedication our troops have displayed in the 236 years of this nation.

Our soldiers marched on Tripoli when pirates threatened the commerce helping our nation grow into a superpower.

When the doors of the Higgins Boats opened June 6, 1944, our troops kept at it no matter what the odds. They knew the fate of the world was at stake.

As the targets became less and less clear in future conflicts, the one constant was the dedication of United States military personnel.

They marched into the jungles of Vietnam with little appreciation and a hefty price.

They patrolled the oceans and skies always prepared to defend our way of life.

Even today, as many of our politicians argue the merits of our foreign policy, our military personnel continue to do their jobs better than any force in the world with no questions asked.

We are allowed to have these fervent political debates and discussions as a direct result of the blood, sweat and tears shed by the people who have served our great nation.

Our citizenry is able to lead by example because our military leaders have provided a fine diagram on what it means to be patriotic.

Dwight D. Eisenhower could not have cemented himself in history without the grit of the allied forces in Europe. The little things done by each individual soldier shined through to make America proudly victorious.

General George S. Patton Jr. said, "wars may be fought with weapons, but they are won by men."

Let us honor those men and women who have freely taken up arms to defend the rest of us when the moment called for a hero, while we also remember how important public service is to our great nation.

A day originally dedicated to the end of World War I, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, when arms were laid down.

Veterans Day is also a celebration of peace.

So remember to honor all veterans this Sunday.

Whether serving in time of peace or time or war, let them know their volunteerism, service and dedication is appreciated.

As politicians get ready for a new term in office, make sure they know how important it is for us to take care of our veterans with quality healthcare and services.

Let officeholders know it is important to all of us, veteran or not, for our veteran's hospitals and veteran's affairs offices to be properly staffed because it is just one more way to show our appreciation.

Providing a healthy life after service is one way to truly show our veterans how much we revere them and all they have done.

Tyler D. Martin

editorial assistant

East Penn Press

Salisbury Press