Tonight one can like the Leafs

As for the rest of the year...

The standing ovation that should come at the Maple Leafs game tonight will be seen live by our troops in Afghanistan.

If fans do give the 100 Canadian troops in attendance that ovation, it will be for those not in attendance, too.

The moment of silence before the game will be for all of those soldiers who have died in all wars and conflicts.

They are not forgotten -- nor is their sacrifice.

The Canadian soldier, throughout many generations, is a special breed. Free countries -- and those who have been liberated by us -- understand that.

In 2007 we are at war.

Brave, selfless, patriotic, resourceful and caring. Gen. David Fraser does not have enough words to describe the greatness of Canadian soldiers. "They have done so much."

Thousands of Canadians have sent cards of support, others have been to rallies, towns have tied yellow ribbons on trees, cars display Canadian flags and pro-troop magnets. Every day Canadians think of our troops in Afghanistan.

But tonight's the night Toronto gets to show its appreciation for them. Tonight's the night Toronto gets to say thanks because tonight's the night at least 100 members of the Canadian Armed Forces will get a standing ovation from Maple Leaf Fans.

It should be emotional. For those who wear the Canadian uniform it will be special. "It's so cool," Fraser said of the gesture by Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment.

And much appreciated. "The evening has been designated as Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Night at Air Canada Centre [emphasis added]," MLSE spokesman Rajani Kamath said.