While it's true that Butler's Veterans Day Parade route should have been packed solid with spectators, considering the debt of gratitude that is due those who have served this nation, the large number of people who did show up for the event produced a laudable show of patriotism by this community.

"I thought it was bigger and better than we ever anticipated," said John Cyprian, the county's director of veterans services.

Sunny weather contributed to the good turnout, although the community's patriotism usually shines in unpleasant conditions also.

The spirit of the day and parade was enhanced by the spectator applause that greeted the procession, the thank-yous that were voiced by people in the crowd as veterans and current service members passed by, and the patriotic colors worn by many of the people who attended.

The show of patriotism continued after the parade as Girl Scouts presented beaded flag pins to the veterans and parade organizers in the area of the reviewing stand.

With the ongoing conflict in Iraq, it is important for the nation to continue to show its support and gratitude to its armed forces. Regardless of people's individual opinions about the war, those opinions must not get in the way of the solidarity with which this nation embraces its fighting forces.

Thursday's patriotic display on Main Street in Butler was a commendable display of such solidarity, justifying the feelings of pride that were evident on the faces of many people lining the street.