On Monday, we celebrate Memorial Day. A day set aside to honor the men and women who lost their lives fighting to protect the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.

And one of those freedoms we often take for granted is the right to vote in elections. On Tuesday, the Democratic and Republican parties will hold primary elections for statewide offices, including everything from governor to supreme court justice. Several key district office, including circuit court judge and district attorney, are on the ballot as well.

The ballots in both parties are full, with hotly contest races for some of the state’s key positions. For our readers, we would encourage you to vote in the Republican primary, and to vote for Bradley Byrne for governor. He is the best choice among the four candidates, proving to the most electable and, based on his record of ethics reform, has proven his commitment to integrity over politics. If he can maintain that commitment in the state’s key role, he could prove effective in bringing much needed change and redirection to Alabama’s Legislature.

For other state offices, on the Republican ticket, we endorse:

Lieutenant governor, Kay Ivey: She has a proven track record of public service and leadership. She will be an effective and capable lieutenant governor.

U.S. Senator, Richard Shelby. The incumbent deserves to be sent back to Washington, D.C., to continue to represent our state and its voters well.

U.S. Representative, 2nd District. On this Republican ticket, the standout challenger to incumbent Bobby Bright (D) is Martha Roby. She is committed to conservative values and effective government reform and would pose a real challenge to Bright in the general election.

Attorney General: Luther Strange. He would bring expertise, experience and a new perspective to an office that has been frought with controversy during the recent term.

State Treasurer: Young Boozer: Despite the unusual name, he posses the better qualifications for the office.

No matter which offices you choose, though, the most important issue is that you vote, either in the Republican or Democratic primary. Remember that polls will open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.

Casting your ballot will take no more than 15 minutes, but it will be your chance to honor the service of millions of men and women who cared so deeply for the freedoms we treasure as Americans they were willing to defend them in the field of battle.

Our veterans understood and appreciated the value of our right to vote. So should we.