'We don't have to be heroes to warrant thanks'

Having been a teacher, coach and mentor I never considered myself to be a hero. I did what I loved and was paid for it. To me a hero is someone who runs into a burning building to save a life or someone who overcomes an addiction.
That is why I am confused about the crop of American flags that sprung up in Warwick. I can understand American flags to honor soldiers but I don’t understand the use of the word hero. Not all soldiers are heroes.
Using the word hero makes one feel good inside. Just like awarding every member of a youth baseball team a trophy whether they won or lost – but It just dilutes the meaning of the award.
Apparently, since these flags appeared around Veterans Day, the Rotary Club wanted to honor soldiers. Then honor soldiers. They did not have to include police, fire, other first responders, teachers, coaches, mentors, community leaders or as they said “anyone else who has been a hero.” Again – it just dilutes the sentiment.
Please stop this political correctness that just weakens us. Let’s get back to thinking of people as people. We don’t have to be heroes to warrant thanks.
Mark Tatro
Warwick