Joseph D. Vrable notes that February is a significant month, not just because of St. Valentine's Day or being the shortest month on our calendar, but because it notes the birth dates of great men who have contributed much to our "American Way of Life."

First among the greats of our country is George Washington, whose birthday we celebrate on Feb. 22. Often called the "father of our country," Washington did more than any individual in bringing us the freedom we enjoy today.

Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is celebrated Feb. 12, is credited with preserving the Union and enabling us, through unity, to become the greatest land on earth.

Lincoln was humble before God. Some men are humble only before circumstances or events. Lincoln's concern was not that God should be on his side, but that he should be on God's side.

Noted for his 1,000 patents, most important of which are the incandescent lamp, the motion picture camera and the phonograph. Thomas Alva Edison was born Feb. 11, 1847. His genius brought better living to all the world.

Christopher Latham Sholes, the father of the typewriter, was born Feb. 14, 1819.

Charles Lindbergh, first man to make a solo flight across the Atlantic, was born Feb. 4, 1902.

William F. Cody, "Buffalo Bill," famous frontiersman and scout, was born Feb. 26, 1846.

Horace Greeley, founder of the New York Tribune and famous for the words, "Go West, Young Man," was born Feb. 3, 1811.

Yes, these men, all in their own way, great or small, added something worthwhile to out great American heritage. This month we pay them deserved homage.

Mrs. Sophie V. Frause

Normandy Park