With our nation at war, every day is Memorial Day.

As you read this, men and women of our armed forces are fighting and yes, dying, to guarantee our freedom and way of life.

The memorials for them — in news accounts, military ceremonies, and the hearts of their loved ones — remain real and close. They won't fade when the sun sets tonight and the barbeque grills and beach gear are packed away.

Even permanent memorials to those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan contain haunting reminders that the last full measure of devotion is ever-present.

A granite memorial unveiled last week at Schofield Barracks, engraved with the names of 18 combat dead from the 2nd Brigade, contains the names of some who died this year.

Blank panels on the memorial are reserved for more names, for soldiers who will give their all for our way of life.

It's entirely appropriate to remember our war dead — surely at the very least, we can pause the beach barbecue for a moment of reflection.

But it's also appropriate, and necessary for our common defense, that citizens support those now serving.

Yes, individuals can "support our troops" — a quick Google search will offer countless ways to do so.

We can also insist that veterans returning from the battlefield receive the benefits they rightly deserve in a timely fashion, particularly the best medical care available for their physical and mental wounds.

Those troops who have died deserve the thanks of a grateful nation. Those still with us deserve the same.