We remember them.

I heard an encouraging story from a friend Wednesday night. Her husband, Robb, is heading overseas in February to Afghanistan. He's in the National Guard. For the next few months he will camping outside with other soldiers to get used to the weather and "toughen up" you might say.

He came home last week to escort more soldiers back to where they will prepare to leave the United States. As they left Chillicothe, the streets were lined with community members cheering and clapping as if they were watching a parade. A little farther down the road, an elementary school led their students outside to stand by the road and show their support for the traveling soldiers.

Simply walking through the airport became a scene from a movie. Person after person stood up on their feet and clapped for the soldiers as they made their way to the gate in their uniforms. Fellow travelers gave them a standing ovation. Robb and six others shared a meal at an airport restaurant during the layover and when he asked the server for their ticket she reported, "There is no ticket, sir." A stranger paid for their meals.

Tears were sitting on my lashes by the end of her story.

I didn't disagree with the war...and don't think I'd change my mind if we had it to do over. I do however believe it has been mismanaged...that our administration is confused. I don't know where you stand on the war...but I think we can agree we all support the men and women risking their lives. I am grateful that these soldiers felt appreciated. I am glad people stood up, took notice, and clapped. What they are doing deserves the attention...not TomKat's wedding in Italy this week.