Claudia Newcorn: Use the word ‘hero’ carefully and wisely

In recent weeks, I have seen a number of news stories that liberally use the word “hero” for actions that do not warrant the term, such as placing a 911 call because the person sees a dangerous situation. Such casual use of a word cheapens its meaning and detracts from recognizing the true heroes among us.

What defines a true hero?

To me, it is very simple and straightforward. It is a person who willingly places themselves at risk to help others. The term hero should not be applied to celebrities because of their fame, business people because of their wealth or sports stars because of their athletic abilities. Are successful achievers leaders in their profession? Yes. Heroes? Hardly.

True heroes are the group of Modestans who desperately tried to save an elderly man whose car ran up an embankment and burst into flames. They are the police officers who risk confronting insane individuals who might pull a gun. They are the firefighters who enter burning buildings, knowing the risk of collapsing roofs and walls.

And they are the 26,000 veterans in Stanislaus County, many of whom have actively served in combat.

The World War II veterans, who in 20 years will all be gone as the war disappears into the history books, just as memories of the Civil War and World War I have faded from living memory. More than 416,000 American soldiers did not return from that war.

It is the veterans of the “Forgotten Conflict” – the Korean War – who fought in conjunction with other United Nations allies to “contain” communist North Korea. Nearly 34,000 soldiers died in what some called a “police action.”

The parade of heroes continues with our Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. How many more will march down this path, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect American interests and the freedom of people they don’t know in other countries?

Recently, while waiting in the Sacramento airport terminal, I saw evidence that there are people who appreciate the heroism of our military. The first was an honor guard of senior veterans who awaited the return of several active-duty personnel. They lined up opposite each other, grizzled, wearing as much of their old military attire as still fit, holding up the American flag and saluting their younger comrades. People nearby halted, clapped and cheered.

But the one that struck me most was a young lad, maybe 14, clad in baggy shorts and a T-shirt too big for him. He approached one of the vets afterward and saluted him. I overheard him say, “Thank you for your service. May I buy you a cup of coffee?”

Today is Veterans Day. Over the weekend, many of our communities had Veterans Day parades. Today, many cemeteries will conduct special ceremonies to honor those who served and fell or who have passed since returning. Whether you can attend or not, take time to put your flag in front of your home to recognize these true heroes among us.

Take a moment on any of the 365 days you see a veteran to express your appreciation. They risked their lives for what many of us take for granted – it is not asking too much to say thank you.

This story was originally published November 10, 2014 at 4:01 PM with the headline "Claudia Newcorn: Use the word ‘hero’ carefully and wisely."