Military pride

Despite the daily headlines about bombings and firefights in Iraq and Afghanistan, American soldiers are re-enlisting for military duty at rates that have exceeded goals set by the Pentagon.

The reasons for signing up to serve another tour are as varied as the individual soldiers' backgrounds, but honor, duty and patriotism are at the top of the list for most.

These men and women are modern-day heroes, putting their lives on the line for freedom in a land that's foreign to them. Some will make the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Last week, many Americans were saddened to learn about the death of Pat Tillman, a 27-year-old Army Ranger who left a career in the NFL to fight in Afghanistan. Tillman was emblematic of the heroism of nearly all our soldiers. His sacrifice -- all their sacrifices and difficult work -- shouldn't go unnoticed. America is right to be proud of that.

Soldiers who already are serving half a world away from home in conditions that few of us will ever see are signing up for second and third tours of duty. Their commanding officers say it's because of the bonds they've formed with their comrades and because of the rewarding work they've been doing.

Whatever the reasons, it seems to be a good year for the military. About halfway through the Army's fiscal year, 28,406 soldiers have re-enlisted. The Marines have already reached 90 percent of their retention goal, and the Air Force and Navy both say their re-enlistment numbers are up.

Critics say the thousands of dollars in re-enlistment bonuses and a sluggish job market have prompted some soldiers to stay in the service. But there should be some monetary reward for the men and women who put themselves in grave danger.

Others caution that any economic improvement at home and the U.S. decision to keep troops overseas longer could prevent soldiers from returning to active duty.

But indications are that the military is benefiting from a renewed sense of patriotism and pride in America and its military objectives.