The soldier kneels and presents the carefully folded flag. Just moments before the Stars and Stripes were draped over the coffin.

Looking around, the crowd of friends and family who came out to bid farewell seems a fitting testament to the soldier they called their own.

Tears stream down the checks as the solemn ceremony continues. In the days ahead, reminders are everywhere, in photographs, memories and mementos &8212; the cherished flag, the hand-signed birthday card, the smile and the little private nicknames each shared.

Unfortunately, for most Americans, the scene, like the memories of what occurred, will quickly fade.

Life goes on and the tragic loss is just a blip in their memories. The loss wasn&8217;t personal. It was a small photograph in the newspaper or a mention on the national news.

Often, the loss of a soldier has become too commonplace; the fallen soldier&8217;s name is not usually mentioned. It&8217;s just deemed unimportant.

Perhaps that&8217;s how some news editors feel; but each soul, each name deserves national recognition.

Monday, our nation celebrated Memorial Day. It&8217;s a holiday set aside to honor the memory of people who have died in our nation&8217;s service.

But for those friends and family who traded a loved one for a cherished American flag, one day just isn&8217;t enough.

We hope you&8217;ll remember and honor our veterans &8212; both living and dead &8212; every day of the year.