Much attention has been focused during dedication ceremonies for the Dole Institute of Politics on the “Greatest Generation,” the people who fought and those who kept the home fires burning during World War II.

After his first tour through the finished center that bears his name, former Sen. Bob Dole also seemed to be struck by the nostalgia associated with his boyhood in Russell and tributes to the thousands of American military people who served during World War II.

But the real mission of the center, he quickly noted, is to serve future generations.

His contemporaries, he said, are now the “disappearing generation.” It is his hope that the Dole Institute of Politics will inspire young people to be involved in public service.

World War II obviously is a major focus for the dedication ceremonies and a pivotal event in the life of Dole and many of his generation. But the war was only the beginning of that generation’s service to their country.

Although he was seriously wounded and carried a permanent disability, Dole returned from World War II to pursue a career of public service. His path took him into politics, where he participated in setting important public policy for the nation.

He was not, however, the exception to the rule for his generation. Many people who lived through World War II contributed to their country in many ways. They participated in church and civic affairs. They volunteered in their neighborhoods and communities. They invested time in their schools and dedicated themselves to raising children who also would be good citizens.

That’s the legacy of the “Greatest Generation.” The stories of World War II veterans, the military aircraft and encampments that are being shared during the Dole dedication are thrilling and inspiring. But, although military service is an honorable and heroic pursuit, it is not the only way to serve the nation.

A major part of the message of the Dole Institute of Politics is that civic involvement is an important part of democracy. Community service and political involvement are not only laudable, but essential, to the welfare of our nation.

Having well-motivated people in elected office who represent the broad interests of the community and the nation, rather than narrow individual interests, is vital to preserving our ideals. Having a populace that is informed about public policy and willing to get involved is imperative. American democracy is a beautiful system, but it doesn’t operate in a vacuum; it depends on the time and energy of its citizens.

Is it any wonder that, having witnessed a serious threat to our democratic system, the “Greatest Generation” was willing to be involved by volunteering and serving in elective office? Does it surprise anyone that people of that generation still are among this nation’s most dedicated voters?

Dole is right. The people who were adults during World War II are fast becoming the “disappearing generation.” Their legacy of their service and involvement can’t be allowed to disappear with them. The mission of the Dole Institute of Politics is to help keep that legacy alive.