I think I should also admit that heroism is rare.
Millions of people have been in the US Military yet just a few thousand have been issued some sort of Valor award.
The very definition of the awards always include, "Conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty."
It's exceptional.
It's why we should stop applying the term "hero" to anyone who puts on a uniform. It dilutes the term and cheapens the sacrifice of actual heroes who did, and do, go above and beyond.
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I concur. Wearing a badge or a uniform does not bestow heroism, in any way. Heroism comes from duty to your fellow man, and sacrifice. And that sacrifice doesn't have to be your life (although it often is). It can be sacrificing your own safety. If you make it out alive or not doesn't change the safety you sacrificed to preform your duty to others.
ReplyDeleteBut duty and sacrifice are, to me, the cornerstones of heroism.
Agreed! I did 22 years, and I'm no hero.
ReplyDeleteThe cliche that rings true is all the heroes I know are dead.
ReplyDeleteYup. I'm hardly Audey Murphy or Sgt York. Did 4 in the USN, 4 in the CA National Guard. Never had a shot fired at me.
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