Many people take this day to Bar-Be-Que and spend time with their family. Most veterans however take this day to reflect on their fallen comrades and what they have done for their country.

Contrary to popular belief, Veteran’s Day is a solemn day especially for those who have fought for this great country. We as Americans owe our lives to veterans, but rarely do we show it.

What many people do not realize is that veterans fought for every right they have. When someone speaks out against the war and how soldiers should stop fighting, the person might not realize that if he/she lived anywhere else in the world the right to speak freely may not exist. I feel that we often take advantage of the rights we are given and that most of us don’t appreciate the sacrifices made by those who serve.

Veterans never say why they have done what they have done because the answer is universally known among them: they did it for their country.

The point is when Veteran’s Day rolls around, be sure to thank a veteran for the sacrifices they have made. Whether they are your sister, brother, mom, dad, grandpa, cousin, uncle, or aunt, be sure to let them know that their sacrifices were not made in vain. Veterans don’t need a party on V-Day—they just need to know that what they have done is not taken for granted.

These are only a few of the many questions that are likely to pop into your head as you transition into the life ahead of you.

However one lesser known option lies with joining the military, notably the National Guard. Even though I myself am only a freshman, I am fully aware of the advantages the Guard can provide for you and what they do.

Even in our own community, their influence is evident. From the post in North Riverside to the farthest reaches of the United States, they help preserve peace and order in our communities.

The National Guard is also a provider of several opportunities for high school graduates. Whether they are from RB, LT, Morton West, Morton East, these opportunities are abundant and can give anyone a jump start in life.

One opportunity the National Guard provides to its guards is a chance to go to college. They pay up to seventy-five percent of a college education, whether it is Medical School, Forensic Science, Engineering, Teaching, and even Journalism.

The Guard also offers the opportunity to travel. This profession allows guard members to see and become familiar with the entire country.

The best part about the Guard however is that when you join you don’t have to stay in for life. You can serve for two, four, or six year terms of service. This option is typically for those who want to pursue dreams other than serving in the Guard.

The National Guard is a great choice for someone who may not have the same assets as everybody else (i.e. a scholarship of some sort), and can instill discipline, respect, and honor in anyone who decides to take that path.

For more information go to the National Guard web site.