The mantle of hero is used so liberally these days that the true meaning ceases to have value. The workers at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant who continue to work in the “hot” zone in an attempt to avert catastrophe have honestly earned this distinction.
A quote from our Governor General David Johnston, in his definition of bravery seems appropriate. “Bravery is fear overcome because bravery is not the absence of fear, it is the judgment that something else, or someone else is more important than fear.”
Among others in this group would be our Second World War veterans and the first responders in the Twin Towers attack. They truly did step into hell. Let’s treat our remaining vets with renewed respect and enthusiasm this Nov. 11.
Owen Chung
Oliver