Remembering local patriots on Patriot Day

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Today is Patriot Day, the sixth observance of a solemn anniversary. Congress authorized the designation after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and President Bush has proclaimed it every year since then.

In ordering flags to fly at half-staff today, the president stated, "We remember the innocent victims, and we pay tribute to the valiant firefighters, police officers, emergency personnel and ordinary citizens who risked their lives so others might live." He also singled out members of the armed forces, public safety, law enforcement and intelligence agencies for their continuing efforts to protect the nation.

The dictionary defines patriot as a person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it against enemies and detractors.

One thing is clear. Patriots are doers, not just talkers. They are people of accomplishment - people with definite convictions who aren't afraid to act on them.

The Sauk Valley is home to a number of patriots. They are veterans who served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. They are veterans who served in Operation Desert Storm. They are veterans who served during the Cold War, when the U.S. struggled against the Soviet Union. They are our men and women currently serving our country throughout the world.

In the past six years, patriots again have stepped forward to support and defend our country as members of the military. Locally, National Guard troops based in Rock Falls and Dixon were sent overseas to serve in Iraq, while other local residents have gone to Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines.

Three gave their lives in the battle against terrorists and insurgents in Iraq:

n Pfc. Scott Tyrrell, a 2000 graduate of Sterling High School, died of burns suffered in November 2003.

n Sgt. Jessica Housby, of Rock Island, a member of the 1644th Transportation Co., based in Rock Falls, was killed by a roadside bomb in February 2005.

n Lance Cpl. Andrew Patten, of Byron, was killed by a roadside bomb in December 2005.

They forever have earned the right to be called patriots. So have the 3,767 other American servicemen and women who have lost their lives in Iraq.

On this Patriot Day and everyday, we should remember their patriotism and be grateful for it.