Military honors

Naming highways to honor community leaders, law-enforcement officers and military heroes is one way of recognizing the contributions made by individuals in our communities. Stretches of Missouri highways have been marked in tribute to state highway patrol troopers who have died in the line of duty. This year the Missouri Senate considered the naming of highway interchanges to honor military men and women who die in action.

A small town in central Illinois has found another way to honor all of its men and women who are serving in Iraq or Afghanistan. The town -- Sullivan, Ill. -- puts up signs on utility poles along two busy streets. Each sign has the name of a resident serving in the military, according to an Associated Press story. More than 100 residents of the town of 4,400 have served.

In addition to the signs, the town also organizes parties to prepare packages to send to servicemen and women overseas. The community has set up a calling tree to keep everyone informed.

There are any number of variations possible for other communities looking for special ways to honor their residents who are in the military. Sullivan residents have found one that works well for them. They are to be congratulated for keeping awareness high regarding those who are serving their country.