Many of us, as always, will take time tomorrow to reflect on Americans killed in combat dating back to the Revolution.

While you are at it, take time to think about the families left behind.   There is a lot of talk that Americans really haven't had to sacrifice much during the Iraq War, but those who have lost a loved one have sacrificed something that can never be replaced.

Throughout South Florida and the nation, there are countless wives, husbands, children, grandchildren and grandparents who are still in the process of trying to get through their grief as they try to get on with their lives.

More than 3,200 Americans have died in Iraq in the last four-plus years. That total includes more than 130 Floridians, and more than 30 from Palm Beach, Broward  and Miami-Dade Counties.

Those are the raw numbers. Behind the numbers are wives and husbands who somehow must find the strength every day to raise children, often without much help. Behind the numbers are those kids who won't have both parents at their graduation or their ball games or their band concerts or their wedding.

Every day, these family members have to get up knowing that a huge chunk of their lives will forever be missing. They listen to the constant political grandstanding about timelines and supporting the troops and who is more patriotic coming from all corners and from all parties. Yet the pain they know is something few, if any, politicians will ever feel.

These family members have no particular day commemorating what they have gone through. For many, it will be years, if ever, before they come to terms with what has happened to their dreams.

Think of those people tomorrow. If one of those family members lives in your neighborhood, or is in your church or temple – as we do have a few, maybe just go by and chat or make a phone call.

Remember, these are the people who have sacrificed the most, and they still must carry on.
Have a safe day and don’t forget, if you drink don’t drive, and buckle up, it saves lives.

- C. Ron