Louis Goldstein, a Veteran of the Army Reserve from Hutchinson, has been described as a “pillar in the community” for Veterans returning wounded from a tour of duty. While under fire on a deployment in Afghanistan, he suffered Traumatic Brain Injury and was awarded the Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, and an Army Commendation Medal. Goldstein works with the Wounded Warrior Project in the Twin Cities, where he is the Alumni Manager and helps those suffering from traumatic injury in wars since 9/11. He is also a 2014 Veterans’ Voices Awardee.
Recently, while traveling, I was approached by a gentleman who asked if I had served in the military (I was wearing a t-shirt that had a military theme). I stated that I have, and still do continue to serve, thinking that he would thank me for my service and be on his way. This was not the case. He did thank me, but added that he thought what I was doing was heroic. This gentleman knew nothing more of my service other than that I had served in the military in some capacity and in some way, shape, or form still serve our country.
While I appreciated his kind words and his appreciation for my service, the term heroic struck me. I have come to despise the term ‘hero’ for its overuse in regards to military service. I do not think of myself as a hero and many -- if not all -- military service members who I have spoken to about the term hero would say the same. There is nothing implicitly heroic about serving in the military. This over use of the word hero has diluted its meaning and purpose to the point that we as a society cannot truly identify real heroes.
As an active participant in the Wounded Warrior Project and a 2014 Veterans’ Voices Awardee, I have witnessed many heroic actions. Tomorrow, on September 11th, the Minnesota Humanities Center will again celebrate and honor Minnesota Veterans for their service to this country and continued leadership in their communities. These Veterans may well be heroes, but not just because they served in the military, but because they continue to work for the good of their communities and those who rely on them in their own hometowns.
The next time you feel yourself wanting to call a Veteran or a member of the military a hero, stop and ask yourself, why? What is it that makes someone a hero? Does the Veteran or member of the military you are addressing possess those qualities, or do you just feel compelled by society to use that word?
As a recently retired Army Master Sergeant with 41 years of active duty and reserve time, I have rarely, if ever, met a soldier that would stand out as a "hero".
ReplyDeleteWe all are assigned missions to accomplish. It was and is our job.
But there are those who do stand out above the rest.
For me that soldier is Louis Goldstein.
I met Louis through the Wounded Warrior Program. I became aware of the traumatic injuries that he suffered in combat that made my injuries pale in comparison.
This young man remains in the service of his country through the Army Reserves, and today, Louis helps fellow soldiers cope with their injuries through his good works as an Alumni Manager for the WWP. He continually strives to improve the lives of returning veterans and I for one, have benefited enormously from attending various WWP events.
Louis may dislike being labeled a hero but to me, he will always be my "battle buddy" and my Hero.
MIlan Alexander
Master Sergeant
US Army (retired)
mlalex@embarqmail.com
VERY well said Louis, however, the work you do for the guys in WWP certainly seems heroic to me. We have appreciated your willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that someone gets the help that they need and making sure they are headed down the right path with any assistance you can give them.
ReplyDeleteAt at time when you could very much be focused on yourself and your own recovery, you never even hesitate to help a fellow soldier. That, to me, is certainly heroic.
Louis - You're a "hero" in and of yourself. All that you have done to serve and help others is the very definition of a hero. Not your deployment or TBI, but you, and all you have overcome to help others overcome.
ReplyDeleteMuch respect, Sarge!
Hero or not, you're a damn fine man, Louis! Keep up the excellent work!
ReplyDeleteLouis,
ReplyDeleteI agree that the term "Hero" is used so lightly indeed.
However, the term hero is not our's to use. most hero's don't see themselves as such and in fact deny it all together as I do. But to some people we are heros. Much like fathers and mothers are there children's heros.
We shrug it off and just smile most of the time. Paint on the good words to make people feel safe once agian and help them feel good about their decision of support for our troops.
The hero's in many veterans and service members eyes will always be the ones who did not return home. The ones who didn't make it back to there families.
If that means that I Must wear the badge for them then I will. They deserve it.
Louis,
ReplyDeleteI agree that the term "Hero" is used so lightly indeed.
However, the term hero is not our's to use. most hero's don't see themselves as such and in fact deny it all together as I do. But to some people we are heros. Much like fathers and mothers are there children's heros.
We shrug it off and just smile most of the time. Paint on the good words to make people feel safe once agian and help them feel good about their decision of support for our troops.
The hero's in many veterans and service members eyes will always be the ones who did not return home. The ones who didn't make it back to there families.
If that means that I Must wear the badge for them then I will. They deserve it.
I am mighty proud to be a part of Louis' extended family - he is married to our grand daughter and his children are our great grand children. He is to be admired for the life choices he has made and continues to make, that is to serve our country and his fellow soldiers in such a special way. Your are a HERO, Louis!!! Grandma Nancy
ReplyDelete