Editors Note: Madison Siegfried recently won the Patriots Pen writing contest at the Post level for 2009. Siegfried is a sixth grade student at Polk County Middle School. The following is her winning essay.

When is the Right Time to Honor our Military Heros?

Everyday, certain people in our beloved country sacrifice their lives for our privileges and liberty. They are some of the most fearless, courageous citizens of the United States. They are all part of the U.S. military. My deliberation would be that our military heroes deserve the everyday respect, honor, and support they deserve. We all need to pay the admiration that they need and are worthy of.

Although they deserve the daily tribute from all, we do have a particular day set aside just for the greatly honored veterans. It is called Veterans Day, or Memorial Day. On the last Monday in May, the United States honors those soldiers who have fought for our country in military service. They all need our gratitude. The military heroes are dedicated, strong-willed, as well as heroic. These valiant conquerors fight for what is right. They fight for justice.

A war veteran is a person who has or is serving in the armed forces, or a person who has had long service or experience in an occupation or office. In other words, a veteran is someone who is a old soldier of long service, a former member of the armed forces, or a person of long experience usually in some occupation or skill most likely being the military.

Sometimes, we take for granted what we have and how we live. These veterans surrender themselves for us. They do it for you and for me. These military groups fight for all and righteousness. The military earned this respect and support from us. They are worthy of the great outcome.

To support these military leaders and followers, we all need to consider a weekly or even monthly routine. We all need to pray for their strength and courage. Everyone knows these veterans will appreciate anything and everything we do for them. The U.S. citizens need to pay our respects. For the military needs a helping hand. The last suggestion to pay our respects is certainly not least. The U.S. also needs to think every day about our veterans and war heroes. Everyone needs to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. That is when I think our loyal, brave, and dedicated military heroes should be honored.