I finally got to see the latest blockbuster, American Sniper, last night, and I was not disappointed. I, like many Americans, walked out of the theater with a lump in my throat, and the inspiration to go grab an American flag and chant "USA, USA" all the way back to my apartment. But that is not all. I also left with a feeling of overwhelming gratitude and tremendous respect for the men like Chris Kyle who leave the comfort of their homes and risk their own lives, not for their own honor or glory, but for the safety and sanctity of the country they love. That kind of bravery and integrity seems to me to be the most respectable thing there is.
However, it baffles me beyond words to hear the criticism of some in the media today, like the criticisms of producer and political activist, Michael Moore, who had the audacity to bash the bravery of Chris Kyle, by calling him a "coward" in a recent tweet.
When I was a junior in high school, I was taught U.S. History by a Vietnam War veteran. His personal stories and accounts were both fascinating and noble and just about the only things that could make a room full of 17 year old kids be quiet and listen. He told us fun stories of adventure, terrifying accounts of battle, and heartfelt tales of his friends who were lost along the way -- all of which have stuck with me to this very day. One story, however, made a particularly lasting impression on me. He told us of a wounded veteran eager to return home who was stopped at the airport and spit on by an anti-Vietnam citizen. Still, today, remembering this story makes my blood boil. It baffles me beyond words how someone could have such a lack of respect and humanity that they would resort to such crude behavior all because they disagreed with a political decision.
As I read posts like Moore's and others', I am reminded of my teacher's story. These comments reflect that same discourteous, shameless behavior as was exhibited in that airport so many years ago but, today, the critics get to hide themselves behind their computer screen.
I am not writing this to expose the cowardice of men like Mr. Moore. I am writing this to bring to light the heroism that is shown every day by so many. Chris Kyle was a hero. There is absolutely no contesting that. But, you don't have to be the "most lethal American in history" to deserve the acclaim and respect that Mr. Kyle deserves.
Movies like American Sniper do a fantastic job of showing the American public who the real heroes in this world really are. It's not Batman, or Superman, or Spiderman, or whichever super hero you fancy who deserve the credit. Look around you. It's your teachers, your coaches, your fathers, grandfathers, brothers, sisters, and friends -- the ones who willingly dedicate their lives to serving and protecting the people who are so quick to criticize them.
In January of 2013, I had the opportunity to travel with my government class to Washington D.C. for President Obama's second inauguration. And on this trip, we had the honor of being supervised by that same teacher, the veteran. On one of our last days there, we asked him to accompany us to visit the Vietnam War Memorial. I will never forget this day. I will never forget seeing him smile as he recounted to us the fun memories that he and his comrades shared during their time there. I will never forget watching scan the walls, recognizing so many of the names that were etched in the granite. And I will never forget the moment when he put his hand to that wall, sliding his fingers over the names of his best friends who sacrificed himself as tears filled his eyes. That is heroism.
Today, the label of hero is used rather loosely. Let us not forget the noble sacrifices of so many before us who gave everything of theirs so that we could prosper.
