Unique ceremony marks this holiday

THE ISSUE: Veterans Day 2012

Jill Pickett

The Hardin County Veterans Tribute in the Elizabethtown Nature Park will be publicly unveiled today at 2p.m.

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OUR VIEW: Honor those who’ve stood in harm’s way

“In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot.” – Mark Twain.

These words attributed to Twain eloquently describe both the glory and the anguish so often experienced by those who put on the uniform and take up the arms of our nation’s fighting force. Driven by a steadfast code of honor, service and sacrifice, these men and women place nation above self.

The praise of others isn’t the reward these warriors seek. But hurtful words and behaviors expressed by those who oppose unpopular conflicts present and past still stab at the heart of these valiant heroes.

Today, we pause to thank those who’ve served and continue to do so within the armed forces. We honor the memory of those who fought on battlefields of today and yesterday but are no longer with us. With words we convey our appreciation for their sacrifice.

But words often fall short in expressing the gratefulness that should be extended to these men and women.

A great opportunity to join with others across the community in saluting our veterans is attending the public unveiling of the Hardin County Veterans Tribute. This long-awaited event will take place at 2 p.m. today at the Elizabethtown Nature Park off Ring Road. Certain to be a moving experience, the incredible work of local artist Rich Griendling will be dedicated in honor of those who have served in each branch of the military.

Attend the event this afternoon. Thank and shake the hand of a veteran present. Reflect on the selfless gift of sacrifice made by those who stand in the gap between the security of our lives and those who seek to destroy it. And when doing so, understand the high price paid by those who bear the appropriate title of patriot..

This editorial represents a consensus of The News-Enterprise's editorial board.