As President Bush strives to put Iraq’s Saddam Hussein in check, the stormclouds of war are growing larger, darker and closer. Americans may well experience another war in the Middle East within a year or two if pressure tactics fail.

In contemplation of this possibility, we are reminded of current and deceased veterans. Since the country’s birth, these are the countless men and women who have fought to keep America safe and free from enemies without and even within. As long as America exists, there will be a need for defensive action, which in turn will produce service personnel and thus veterans.

At 11 a.m. Monday in Cedar Hill Cemetery, a ceremony is planned to remember Suffolk residents who have done their duty in past wars.

We hope that you will make the time to come and honor these people. They ask for so little, yet deserve so much in return.