Many American citizens go about their daily lives, doing their jobs, performing their civic duties, or simply having fun, without realizing that there are a group of people who helped contribute to the life and freedom we experience today. They are the soldiers of our beloved America, both past and present, and worked hard to give us this special freedom. Therefore, the best time to honor our military heroes is every day.

                Every American should take a little time out of their schedule and think about how soldiers have changed our lives today. They have fought many wars to protect us, like World War I and World War II, to defend our country and its citizens. However, in my opinion, the most significant wars our brave soldiers was the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Before the Revolutionary War, America was under British control, and we were still serving under King George III. If it was not for the soldiers who stood up and fought for our independence, we would still be an English colony, and our culture would be extremely different.

                The Civil War has also greatly influenced our lives as we lead it today. During the Pre-Civil War era, most of America was still practicing slavery, and life for African Americans was very difficult. A very large percentage of their population was enslaved in the South. The Civil War veterans helped establish rights for African Americans and abolish slavery. The soldiers of that time helped slow down the idea of racism, and without them, our lifestyle and perspectives of many people we know would be very different.  Our brave soldiers have also defended our country in other wars. In any case, they have worked and trained hard to shape our country into what it is today.

                In conclusion, Americans should look around them and appreciate the freedom that they experience today. The soldiers have granted these rights. This is why I think the best time to honor our military heroes is every day. 

BY KARL KARLTON