Veterans Day 2000 marked the groundbreaking for the national World War II memorial.

The monument being constructed is intended to honor the veterans of that war and to inspire future Americans to continue the struggle for freedom.

War is not pretty and World War II was probably the worst one yet.

Yet millions of Americans traveled half the world away and risked or even gave their lives in the struggle against tyranny.

No monument can be constructed large enough or grand enough.

There can be no building built by man that could adequately pay the proper tribute deserved of these people.

Though the monument is a step in the right direction, each person should remember for themselves what effect the war had on them.

Children today need to know what gift their grandparents gave them, for tomorrow they may be called on.

The youth of today need a window to the past to inspire their efforts in the future.

Perhaps the World War II memorial will do this.

We believe, however, that it is the parents who ultimately must instill the ideals of the past in their children.