Why do we remember those that have passed on? Is it to remember the person or what they did, or some combination of both?

Today will see the official unveiling of a World War II memorial that has been added to the J. Smith Lanier II Park in West Point.

The memorial was created by Jim Nix, a local man that wanted to honor five men that died and another who was taken prisoner during World War II.

The reason for this effort on Nix’s part is both personal and practical. Personal because one of the men, Wendell Lloyd Nix, is his brother. Practical because none of these men have been memorialized yet.

In this particular case, it is obvious that Nix is honoring these men specifically, but that doesn’t take away from what is being done. These men fought, bled and died. They are more than deserving of recognition.

Even though we are nearly a month after Memorial Day, the feelings brought up each year are no less impactful than on the day of.

The men and women who serve do so for a variety of reasons. Some do it because of a great sense of patriotism and duty to their country, while others are continuing a family legacy. There are still more that enlist because it is a job that can open doors later in life.

No matter what reason one has for enlisting, the possibility of dying is ever present. All who sign up to serve are aware of this possibility, yet serve regardless.

That is why those that have made the ultimate sacrifice should be honored.