The nation can never honor its veterans as much as they deserve.

But Gov. John Baldacci made a worthy effort this week when he thanked 13 former prisoners of war for their sacrifices and awarded them State of Maine Silver Star Honorable Service medals.

"You know all too well the meaning of sacrifice and of service," said Baldacci at the ceremony, which was held on the grounds of the new Maine Military Museum and Learning Center in South Portland.

Yet it is one thing for these former prisoners of war to know the meaning of sacrifice and service -- and another for others to acknowledge and recognize the price they paid. To truly honor these veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam will take more than medals; it will take a collective effort to keep their deeds in our memory.

That point was not lost on Baldacci, who noted the work of Air Force veteran Lee Humiston to establish the Maine Military Museum -- just the kind of effort that keeps the memory of soldiers' sacrifice alive. Looking past the museum grounds to school children on the Mahoney Middle School playground across the street, Baldacci said, "It's a way for them to realize freedom comes at a price."

Amen, Governor.