By Scott Sherman

As a proud son of a 101st Airborne Army veteran, I know first-hand the sacrifices military men and women make to protect our God-given rights. Many have sacrificed their lives in battle so that we may have a say in how our government should be run.

To honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, San Diegans have an opportunity to thank them by voting in the upcoming primary election on Tuesday, March 3.

If you are a permanent absentee mail voter, your ballot must be postmarked on or before election day and it must be received no later than the Friday after election day. Absentee voters can also drop off their ballots at a series of locations around the city or at the Registrar of Voters office anytime Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A list of locations can be found on the Registrar of Voters website at sdvote.com.

For day-of voters, please also visit sdvote.com to locate your polling station.

In order for our form of government to work, a government that is elected by its citizens can only be effective if we take part in the process.

With a government that effects many parts of our lives — from schools, to health care, to homeland security. Voting is a sacred and vital right that we must take seriously

By voting on March 3, you can make your voice heard on how our government should operate. I hope you will join me in taking part in this special right that many heroes have died protecting.

— San Diego City Council member Scott Sherman represents the District 7 neighborhoods of Linda Vista, Mission Valley, Grantville, Allied Gardens, Del Cerro and San Carlos.