Dave Karnes

What are heroes like in today’s society? Many people see heroes as men in tights with super human powers; however, they do not exist. True heroes are found in everyday life. They always help you when you need them the most. Real heroes may not have super powers, but they always do what is right, even when it is difficult. The lives of many Americans were lost during 9/11, but a group of heroes stood up and saved anyone they could. One of these heroes was brave marine, Dave Karnes.

Dave Karnes lived in Wilton, Connecticut during the events of 9/11. He worked in Wilton as a senior accountant. While there, he heard about the devastating attack on the Trade Centers. Dave was compelled to do something, so he rushed home, put on his marine uniform, and then went to get a traditional marine haircut. Before driving to New York City, he stopped at his local church. He asked the parishioners to pray for him and all the people involved in the tragic incident. Then, he drove to New York, and began searching with the rescue teams, not knowing what he would find.

Dave Karnes

The search for survivors was eventually called off, due to the unstable condition of the debris; however, Dave was not finished. While searching, he spotted another marine named Sgt. Thomas. Together, they began to search all over the area. To continue searching was extremely dangerous because flames were bursting from beneath the debris. After an hour of searching and yelling, they finally heard a faint noise coming from beneath the debris. They followed the noise, and found two trapped officers. Then, they called in the rescue team.

Dave did whatever he could to help the rescuers free the officers trapped in the debris. The two officers were Will Jimeno and Sgt. John McLoughlin, and they were trapped 20 feet below the surface. Up to the point that the rescuers arrived, Dave spoke to the officers and assured that they would be saved. While the men were being dug out, he passed tools to and from the rescuers, and even offered his knife when it appeared Jimeno’s leg had to be amputated for rescue. Fortunately, the officer was released without amputation. Two lives were successfully saved that night because of a few brave men.

Dave Karnes is a hero because he did what others wish they had the courage to do. At any moment during his search, he could have become as trapped as the two officers he saved. Real heroes have the courage to stand up and do what is right, even when it is difficult or dangerous. Dave did not have super strength, super speed, or the ability to fly. He showed that an accountant from Wilton, Connecticut, an average person, could be a real life hero.