Remember the fallen, honor the living

Pause today to think about the four men buried at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery who represent the ultimate sacrifice of more than half a million American servicemen and women since the start of World War I.

On this day, the 92nd anniversary of the end of World War I, the 56th anniversary of Veterans Day, think of how those people have shaped us as a nation. Of the blood that was shed, the lives lost, the families forever altered.

Think of how they've changed life for you.

Think of those lost, but don't forget about those who are still with us and those who still serve.

There is time to show them your appreciation, but in some cases, there's not much time left.

The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that among the more than 16 million Americans who served in World War II, only about 2 million are still alive. They're in their 80s and 90s. By 2020, all but a few will be but memories.

We can no longer thank all those who died in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam or other service, but we can still thank those who survived.

And there are myriad ways to do so. Towns and schools throughout the suburbs will show their own brand of tribute: a veteran in Arlington Heights telling of his experience on an Honor Flight Chicago trip to the World War II memorial in Washington, D.C., a statue unveiling at a veterans memorial in Bartlett, Medal of Honor winners speaking to students at Waubonsie Valley High School, a parade in Elburn.

St. Charles resident Sarah Giachino has found her own way to connect. And she does it day in and day out providing one veteran she'd never met before with the same kind of love and respect you would a father or grandfather who'd served.

It's a story that touched our hearts.

Giachino, according to a story by Dave Heun in today's paper, is co-founder and director of the Fox Valley Troop Support Group, which sends letters, food and necessities to troops overseas. Letters from her dad an infantryman in World War II who fought the Germans inspired her mission. She read a news story this spring about World War II Marine William Faulkner, who fought at Iwo Jima, and drove to his retirement home with a thank you card for his service. They struck up an instant, symbiotic relationship.

Giachino notes that her own father has lost his memory and has no more stories to tell. Her friendship with Faulkner has helped her cope with her father's decline.

“Mr. Faulkner has not replaced my father but visiting him and being in his company makes me feel like I haven't lost my dad forever,” she said.

Perhaps Veterans Day is as much about sharing as it is about honoring. Hug a vet today.