Just as those of the "greatest generation" are a reflection of their times, so are the individuals of this generation. While the former had the values that won wars and made our country the leader for the industrial era, the question is, will this generation, with its values, have the capacity to move our country forward in the new era of globalization?

A society, in order to thrive, must share a common vision and the common values needed to hold it together to strive for common goals. The past generation had common problems to overcome and leaders who gave them hope. For the most part, this generation has enjoyed a good life, become more divided, impersonal and with no common problem to bring them together. It is chilling to think that the tragedy of 9/11 brought us together for only a short time, and then we went on our separate ways. We had no one to tell us to sacrifice, to persevere and assume personal responsibility.

One way to honor those who gave their lives to keep our country free would be to give new life to the values they held so dearly.

Let's work to make sure their legacy lives on.

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Utah native John Florez has founded several Hispanic civil rights organizations, served on the staff of Sen. Orrin Hatch and on more than 45 state, local and volunteer boards. He also has been deputy assistant secretary of labor. E-mail: jdflorez@comcast.net.