War and conflict have been drivers of history since time immemorial. The causes and the goals involve great national quests for justice and order, but are also at times clouded in the passions of the day or in grand illusions about power and wealth. Historians will debate the decisions that have led to war or determined the outcome. However, their conclusions should not detract from our recognition of the ordinary men and women who put their lives on the line in a selfless effort to defend our interests or advance our nations.