In 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day as a way to honor all the men and women who have helped preserve peace and have served their country in battle. It is a day that is observed nationally and should be observed locally.

Itawamba County is rich with history of those who have fought for this country - some are still living to be honored today and some have passed on, only to be remembered. But whether living or dead, their sacrifices should not be forgotten.

The best way to honor our veterans this week is to fly the American flag, as a symbol of respect. Wearing poppies is also common on Veterans Day as well as Memorial Day, a practice which originated from the poem amp"In Flanders Fields.amp"

Flanders was the scene of one of the bloodiest battles of World War I. John McCrae, a doctor serving on the battlefield, wrote this poem after treating the wounded and burying the dead.

"In Flanders fields the poppies blow between the crosses, row on row, that mark our place; and in the sky the larks, still bravely singing, fly scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago we lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, loved, and were loved, and now we lie in Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: to you from failing hands we throw the torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die we shall not sleep, though poppies grow in Flanders fields."

Let us never forget those who gave their lives that we might have the freedoms we do today. And let our thoughts and prayers remain ever close to those brave soldiers still on the battlefields. Let our flags fly high and may God bless our nation - today and always.