COMMENTARY: Be a hero

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Kathryn Aleshire
  • 100th Mission Support Group chief enlisted manager
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  I used to think of heroes in a transcendental sort of way. They were the people who were bigger than life, they could do no wrong, and they were the image of what is right and perfect in our world. But I think we can all agree that human perfection is a vision we strive for, but not truly attainable.

I've given more thought to heroes in the past years, and especially in the month of November.

The first reason is that my dad's birthday is in November. I've always admired and respected my dad. He raised seven children on factory worker's pay, and we never really went without the basics. He was also a World War II veteran.

The second reason is we celebrate Veteran's Day this month. Who should better personify the title of hero than our military brethren? I've contemplated this more over the past few years because my dad passed away December 2012.

Before his passing, he would always let me know how proud he was of me because I serve in the Air Force. Every year on my birthday, I would get a card in the mail from him and on the inside would be two little words "My Hero." I was always humbled by that sentiment and never felt deserving of the words. It was a little ironic as well, since he was a hero in my eyes.

After his passing, it became clear to me that I'm the Airman I am, not because I felt like a hero, but because my dad saw more in me. He reminded me of that every year in those birthday cards and I wanted to honor his image of me.

So when times get challenging or tough decisions need to be made, taking the easy route isn't an option. I've challenged myself to strive towards perfection to try to attain the unattainable. Do I do this in every aspect of my life every day? No. But I analyze my actions and strive to improve on those actions and qualities that I know I can make better.

By virtue of serving in the U.S. military -- if you're not dishonorably discharged -- then you're categorized as a veteran. This distinction should be held sacred, in someone's eyes you're a hero. It could be your parents, partner, children, friends, co-workers or even that one person who takes a minute to thank you for your service.

Are you honoring this title? Is your performance honoring all of the veterans who have come before you and that you serve with today? Are you setting a legacy of honor for those that come after you?

I'd like to challenge you to take a few minutes and think about what it means to serve. Think about all of our military brothers and sisters who have come before us and will come after us. Is your performance worthy of their respect? Think of your loved ones. Are you upholding your oath and keeping them safe? Do you challenge yourself to be the best Airman you can be and honor the hero status you have been given?

Be their hero; be your own hero, and make that legacy for the future generations of Airmen who will serve after you.