It’s always with special pride that we observe Memorial Day, reflecting on the commitment and sacrifice of our veterans and what that has meant to the United States and to the well-being of the world.

THIS YEAR, The Enterprise is doubly proud to acknowledge a sincere contribution to the spirit of Memorial Day.

In a gesture by the Davis High School football team that would serve many of us well, Blue Devil football players have been urged by their coach Steve Smyte to be active in their appreciation of what American veterans have provided for us over the years.

“We should … be mindful and appreciative of those veterans that we are honoring for the sacrifices they made, so that we could have the opportunities that we have today,” Smyte wrote to the more than 100 student-athletes in his program. “If you love your freedom and the opportunities that it presents, then remember those who paved the way for you and honor them in your own way.”

Smyte reminds his players that Memorial Day is a “thank-you day” to recognize “those who sacrificed everything for you.” As such, he urges his team to do “something meaningful” to honor those who helped provide our freedoms.

“Visit a loved one in a nursing home, volunteer in a shelter, write a letter to a vet. Pass on the idea of sacrifice, integrity and honor this Memorial Day,” the coach writes.

SMYTE, A SPECIAL education instructor at Davis High, gets it. Coaching a sport is more than what goes on on a playing field. It’s a life lesson that should bring with it awareness of personal responsibility. Smyte has always understood how important it is to give back to the community.

Ever the teacher, Smyte also gave his team Internet links to learn about the evolution of the Memorial Day celebration, from its beginnings as Decoration Day, honoring the fallen soldiers from the Civil War. He showed the Blue Devils how they could be involved in the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Projects and gave his players a list of events they could attend Monday.

While we once again salute and thank members of our armed forces, past and present, we also are honored to tip our cap in the direction of an athletic team that understands its responsibility as contributing members of society.

Coach Smyte, we thank you, too.

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