hero

I nominated my younger brother for the local news’ Hometown Hero weekly segment.  In my letter to the TV station I briefly touched on his military service.  The bulk of my nomination was in trying to get him some recognition for all of the voluntary community service he has been doing for the last two years.  The news station had a different angle that they wanted to follow as far as military service.  My brother is involved in a lot of social service programs that assist community members and veterans.

It turned out to be another example of praising a soldier and forgetting a veteran.  I dare say my brother has done more for his country serving the local community than his ten months in Afghanistan.  Some people want all the credit, usually the ones that do very little.  Others want none of the credit.  I come from a family that tries to stay away from recognition.  We do not speak aloud or often about our community services but we all do serve in the community.

Can we attempt to recognize and reward service after military careers have ended?  If veterans only get medals and recognition from yesteryear how are we as a nation supposed to keep them alive?  If every day you were thanked and recognized for something you did ten years ago?

I guess this is my social work advocate coming out.  Looking once again at the limits, at the dead ends.  Everyone needs to feel needed and supported but at the present moment for present actions.  And how can you ignore how much effort someone puts in for the betterment of others over themselves?  My brothers and I come from parents who have taught us to speak up and speak out for everyone, not just ourselves or our own needs and desires.

APPLETON, WI (WFRV) This week’s Hometown Hero was inspired to join the U.S. Marine Corps following the 9-11 attacks. .

Source: Hometown Hero: Alex Feest – Story | WeAreGreenBay