Remember, honor troops with other 9/11 heroes

By Chris Anderson

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The word “hero” has its ties to Greek mythology where Hero was a legendary priestess of Aphrodite loved by Leander. Webster's defines hero as “one that shows great courage”.

I saluted President Bush on 9/11 at Barksdale AFB, LA. Surprisingly, I listened to his speech on a tarmac 800 feet from the location where he discussed the tragedy and reassured us and the rest of the nation that security was his foremost concern. He stated, in his own words, that these cowardly acts would be avenged, but in due time. Over the span of a few hours one morning, Bush 43 became a wartime president. The salute to the Commander-in-Chief was the crispest I have ever given and the most unexpected.

This leads me to my main point. The recent 10-year anniversary commemorations of 9/11 heroes duly honored police, firefighters and everyday citizens, including the passengers on United Flight 93. We also need to remember and honor our troops.

The troops of this country on numerous occasions have exemplified heroism and a dedication to the defense of our country and freedom that is unparalleled throughout the world. Certainly, advanced weaponry, superior communications capability, financial prowess and support of the people play a part in the strength of our military.

However, I maintain that the esprit-de-corps underscored by volunteerism are what separates the U.S. military from other nations' militaries. It is their character and the pride with which they wear the uniforms of the USMC, USA, USN, USAF, USCG and some not in uniform (CIA, among others) to serve readily. Many are seen smiling as they embark on their journey (if you travel through the U.S. airports, you have seen them) in order to keep us free and perform their duty - as heroes.

Chris Anderson, a third-generation Cedar Rapidian, is an account manager at Rockwell Collins and flies in the Air Force Reserve Comments: cbander2@rockwellcollins.com