The 101st Airborne, or the “Screaming Eagles,” is rich in history, from its formation during World War II to landing on Normandy Beach on D-Day to fighting on Hamburger Hill in the A Shau Valley during Vietnam and most recently fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan.

It is a well-trained force which has proven time and time again that it is always ready to answer our country’s call. Those in this distinguished outfit have shown courage under fire and selfless acts in the most hostile of situations. Many have given their lives for this country we love so much.

It is only fitting that we acknowledge the huge sacrifices these soldiers have endured and are currently enduring as nearly 25,000 soldiers are set to be deployed, mostly to Afghanistan over the next year.

The 101st Airborne Division is based out of Fort Campbell, not that far from Bowling Green. Col. Dominic J. Caraccilo, now in charge of the sprawling post – while the commander is deployed – which extends into Tennessee, is asking citizens to show their support by passing out 101st Airborne flags.

On Monday, Caraccilo passed out the 101st Airborne Division’s Screaming Eagles flags to regional leaders at the Barren River Area Development District meeting.

Over the next year, government buildings around our state will be sporting the flag under the American and Kentucky flags.

This is a very fitting gesture considering the sacrifices these men and women are making for our country in defense of freedom here and overseas.

Some of these soldiers who are going to Afghanistan have been on multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The division has suffered some major casualties while fighting the war on terror. In the past six months, the division has lost 30 soldiers – 20 of them in the past month or so.

It has gone above and beyond since its formation and it is only proper and the right thing to do to hoist the flags proudly over our government buildings and homes to show our support for its courage and sacrifices.