You can never have too many heroes

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Ginger Schreitmueller
  • Air Force Special Operations Command Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. (AFPN) --  It wasn't a heated discussion, but certainly one that provoked a vocal exchange of opinions. It wasn't about politics, policies or religion. It was centered on a four-letter word: Hero.

My friend insisted the term is overused, being randomly placed in news articles that highlight individuals for everything from saving a trapped kitten to Airmen on the battlefields in Iraq. His viewpoint is if you label everyone a hero, then you degrade the significance of the term. If you are just doing your job, you can't be a hero. You are just good at what you do.

Not true, I countered. Labeling people as heroes does not belittle the term. On the contrary, it enhances the power of the word. That is when I stepped on my soapbox.

I have tons of heroes. Some have done unbelievable feats. Some have done simple little actions. All make a serious impact on my life.

For example, Superman is my hero. He is strong and tough on the outside; inside he is mild mannered. Kryptonite aside, he reminds me that you have to have balance in your life.

My family and friends, whose faith has pulled me over some Grand Teton-sized rough spots, are my heroes. They are constant reminders that I have a cheering section when I need one.

My children are my heroes. They know how to make me laugh when I want to cry. They continually surprise me with their levelheaded philosophy on living life. They remind me being a mom is the coolest job in the world.

Then there are people like retired Master Sgt. Tim Wilkinson. His personal courage and humble attitude remind me that dedication and professionalism make the difference even when you're in the midst of a 15-hour firefight.

As I rambled on with my list of heroes, my friend conceded the discussion with his hands up in an "I-quit" gesture. I didn't necessarily win but I did make my point. Everyone needs heroes and you can't have too much of a good thing.

My personal list of heroes is endless, and I hope I continue to add names to that illustrious list every chance I get. Heroes are those whose actions, words, deeds or mere presence portray courage and strength. My heroes remind me what is important in life. It is not about being good at your job or being recognized for some specific achievement. It is about the impact you make in the life of others.

All you can ever hope is that you are on someone's list of heroes.