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On Tuesday, this nation celebrates Veterans Day, which honors all who have served honorably in this country's armed forces. And, when veterans come to mind, so should the principle of loyalty to the nation.
Men and women who served honorably in the past and those future veterans still serving honorably deserve the respect and admiration of all of their countrymen and women.
On the issue of loyalty, they have demonstrated -- or still are demonstrating -- dedication to America's goals, aspirations -- and, yes, best interests -- even if their job in the military did not -- or does not -- involve actual combat.
The military services have many support positions with a myriad of important responsibilities. A service member does not have to have served on the front lines of combat to be deserving of accolades for his or her service.
Today is the right day to begin focusing totally on the good that has been the product of military members' service, past and present.
Talk to your children and grandchildren about today. Tell them the significance of the day.
The goal, of course, should be to instill patriotism and the excitement that comes with it, even at their early age. One thing for sure: Stress to them that the veterans were loyal to this free country and that is why they can enjoy their lives.
It also is appropriate to tell them that many children of the world do not live in a free country and that their lives are much different than children's lives here.
Finally, today is a good day for this nation's adults to reassess their loyalty to America and ponder ways they can help make it better, not more divisive. We rightly honor veterans today, but all of us should reflect on ways we can be worthy of honor in the conduct of our own lives.