Day to remember the dead from wars past and present

There are freshly dug graves of American soldiers this Memorial Day, a reminder that we are a nation at war. But unlike past wars in which the enemy was known and the battlefields identifiable, today we are confronting an idea, as much as a foe.
The war on global terrorism is unlike any this nation has fought. In Afghanistan last year, the American-led coalition succeeded in ousting the murderous Taliban government, which had given aid and comfort to Al-Qaida, the terrorist organization responsible for the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on America.
The Taliban leaders had also embraced Osama bin Laden, the mastermind of world terrorism, and protected him to the end. Bin Laden has eluded capture and remains the spiritual leader of Islamic militants bent on death and destruction.
Two months ago, the United States, Britain and a couple of allies declared war on the dictatorial regime of Saddam Hussein in Iraq. This nation's military might was on display for all to see -- via live television coverage.
There is no doubt that we are the most powerful country in the world this Memorial Day. Yet, Saddam, his sons and some of his confidantes have not been brought to justice.
And so the war on global terrorism is still being waged.
Security alert
Thus, as we remember those who gave their lives to preserve the freedoms we enjoy, it is telling that America is on high security alert, as a result of intelligence suggesting that Al-Qaida may be expanding its plans for a wave of attack overseas into the United States.
But that should not dissuade us from participating in today's remembrance of the brave men and women who gave their lives in the service of their country.
There will be parades, speeches and other ceremonies, flowers and flags will adorn the graves of those millions who served in the armed forces, and Old Glory will be on display at our homes, businesses and public places.
At 3 p.m. today, Americans will pause for a National Moment of Remembrance. That moment of reflection was recognized by an act of Congress to put the "memorial" back in Memorial Day and honor America's fallen heroes.
But the backdrop to these observances is the war on global terrorism and President Bush's promise that this country will lead the fight to rid every nation of this scourge. By so doing, we will free the United States from the threat of another attack on its mainland or its interests abroad.