"Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of readiness to die." - G.K. Chesterton

Over the past couple of years, apparently because of political correctness, many of our traditions have been challenged and overturned by a heartbreakingly small number of people. One tradition that has become stronger, thank goodness, is the honoring of our real heroes in this country — our veterans. For those of us who can remember the shame-filled treatment of our veterans during the Vietnam era, this is a welcome feeling. We have thousands of veterans living here in Rockdale County; our own writer and hero, Vietnam veteran Pete Mecca, has highlighted many of their stories.

In this special Veterans Day edition, we highlight two local heroes whose quiet actions have made a big difference for so many families in Rockdale and to so many military men and women around the world. Capt. Tommy Clack and Gen. Ray Davis will be inducted into the Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame, and deservedly so. You can read about their stories starting on page 10.

This weekend, there are many activities you can attend to honor our veterans. Pete Mecca will host a special Veterans Symposium at VFW Post 5290 in Conyers, 2 p.m.–4 p.m. Saturday. The cover charge is $5 for adults and $10 for families, with proceeds going to the Wounded Warrior fund.

American Legion Post 77 will hold a special ceremony Monday at 11 a.m. Afterwards, the Last Man Standing club, a group of local World War II veterans, will meet.

On Monday evening, there is a special program at the Walk of Heroes Veterans Memorial starting at 5:15 p.m., with a patriotic concert, ceremonies and speakers at 6 p.m.

If you know a veteran or if there is a veteran in your family, tell him or her "thanks" every day, but especially Monday. If you can, give these vets a big hug because, God knows, without them you would not be free to read this editorial.