Those who have honorably served in the U.S. military deserve the special thanks and respect of America.

It’s been a while since most Americans have known someone who was actively involved in combat on behalf of the United States.

For the nation, the conflict in Iraq has been a vivid reminder of the dangers military forces can be called upon to face in the line of duty.

That’s worth remembering, especially on Memorial Day, a day set aside to honor those who have served in the U.S. military and especially those who have died in service.

For some Americans, that will be a very fresh memory. Fortunately, U.S. casualties in Operation Iraqi Freedom were relatively few, but a number of service men and women did give their lives in the conflict. Many more put themselves in harm’s way to support the U.S. mission to remove Saddam Hussein as Iraqi’s dictator.

Many of us knew one or more of those soldiers — or we knew the families anxiously awaiting word of loved ones in combat. They felt the pride of having someone serve their country but also felt the fear that people of every generation have felt when a family member goes to war.

Those who serve deserve our admiration, not because they are extraordinary people, but because they are ordinary people willing to take on an extraordinary task. The stories of World War II veterans have brought to life for many the realities of war and the valor of citizen soldiers.

Those who served in World War II came from all walks of life. They were teachers, accountants, laborers and construction workers. In most cases, they had no desire to fight anyone, let alone a foreign enemy. But when called upon to defend the United States and its ideals, they left everything that was familiar to serve in distant locations, spending months and years away from the comforts of home.

The same has been true in conflicts throughout our history. Those who were drafted, as well as those who volunteered bravely, went into battle for a cause they considered to be more important than their own safety, even their own lives.

The American military now is an all-volunteer force. Its performance in Iraq confirmed the quality and dedication of our military personnel and their willingness to put American ideals above their own safety. Their time in the military will serve them well, whether they make a career in the service or go on to other ventures. Too few of our national leaders have had the benefit of serving in the military and gaining a better perspective of what it means to send U.S. troops into battle.

Americans are not a militaristic people, and yet we must be prepared to defend our land and our beliefs. The people who are willing to bravely take up arms for that cause deserve our respect and our support. Today, on Memorial Day, we honor their contribution to peace and justice around the world.