Letter to the editor: True heroes act without gain

Let’s begin by defining the word hero. In my opinion, a hero is a person who sees something that needs to be done and does it without regard for personal gain. Please keep this definition in mind as I name a few who make the hero list.

First is surely the volunteer firefighter. Who does more for less without seeking profit or gain than those men and women who protect our homes and communities from possible destruction?

The men and women who spend their time in church basements preparing meals for the hungry and homeless qualify as heroes. Add those who stand out in the hot sun passing out boxes of food to needy families.

Also, heroes are those folks who mow the lawn or shovel the sidewalk for an elderly neighbor, or shop for an elderly person who is homebound and isolated.

I could expand this list but you get the idea — no personal or financial gain.

To the above, I salute you.

If you happen to be a first responder, don’t be sad or angry that you didn’t make my list. You chose a career in a particular field of employment. Being a first responder means you respond first. You chose to receive a salary to be on the front line. To all those on the front lines, a big pat on the back, a big atta boy. Thank you for doing your job. Thank you for earning your pay.

Robert. B. Ritchey

Penn Township, Westmoreland County