They practice different faiths and are representative of all segments of our society. They come from all walks of life and all races. They all share a common trait.
They are, and were, willing to step up and fight to preserve our freedoms. I'm talking about the basic freedoms enjoyed by all of us.
Of course, I am talking about our local veterans.
As Veterans Day is today, please take a few moments to remember those who have served and those who continue to serve. It's the least we can do.
For generations, these brave veterans have been willing to put their lives on hold - and even pay the ultimate sacrifice - so that we may enjoy the freedoms we have. And don't forget the families of the veterans. They pay a price, too.
American men and women have fought many battles. Over the years, the locations have changed many times. We must always remember the sacrifices they have made in those places so far away.
The Tribune Chronicle coordinated several activities on Saturday, including a performance by the 338th U.S. Army Reserve Band, the annual parade and for this year, as part of the newspaper's observance of 200 years of newspapers in Trumbull County, a coffee-table book featuring stories about our local veterans is being offered.
The citizens of this area have a duty to remember those who served and continue to support those who currently are serving. Take time today to thank them. Shake the hand of a veteran and let him or her know that we are grateful for all they have done. It's not just the patriotic thing to do. It's the right thing to do.
I recently received a poem, submitted by a person named Paul R. Lawson of McDonald. I don't know him and he doesn't say whether he wrote it or not, but I like it and have been saving it to be printed today. Here it is:
Profile of a Hero
''God blessed the soldier who went to war,
Came back to society and spoke of it no more,
He protected America with blood, sweat, and tears,
And made it a point to receive no cheers,
His rank he achieved with knowledge and skill,
And retired it in a closet to work in a mill,
Silver stars were pinned upon his chest,
But in church he looks like all the rest,
God blessed this soldier who holds it all within,
He felt it was his duty to just defend,
To the grave he shall carry it; the demons of war,
And keep it silent evermore,
Real heroes walk amongst us from time to time,
But you will not recognize them for they will decline,
God Bless You Soldier, Evermore!''
In a postscript to his note, Mr. Lawson wrote, ''Please do not edit or change poem wording. Thank you.''
Mr. Lawson, I wouldn't think of it.
Robinson is the editor of the Tribune Chronicle. He can be reached at frobinson@tribtoday.com.