David Manning

David while in Iraq.

Heroes come in all different shapes and sizes. The person sitting next to you may be considered a hero in someone else's eyes. A hero these days has come to be known by a number of different characteristics. Some say that honesty, loyalty, and trustworthiness are the main characteristics of a hero. Still others say that caringness, responsibility and dependability are the characteristics. Others may say that a group of people are heroes, such as: EMTs, police officers, and soldiers. I happen to think that all of the above are important.

My hero is my Uncle David, a soldier in the National Guard, and a father to five boys. He has been activated three times since the "War against Terroism" started. The first time he went to Oklahoma to get acclimated to the weather, but never made it overseas. He then was activated for the second time, making his way to Iraq. He served there for one year. He left two days after Christmas. I remember that everyone was very sad when he left. My cousin Donald was the most upset, because he was worried that his father was going to miss his high school graduation. However, David got special permission to come home for three days to celebrate with Donald on his graduation. It was hard having David gone, but even harder having him home, only to see him leave again. While he was gone, his own family had plenty of ups and downs that they had to overcome without him. We sent David letters and care packages, to give him some of the comforts of home. When he finally did return, he was told the news of being a grandfather as well.

He had many stories to share, and a few photos of the landmarks in Iraq. He bought me a sweatshirt while there that said "Operation Iraqi Freedom...Been there done that!" I thought that was pretty cool that he thought of me enough to get me something. His family had their share of stories as well. On the third activation he was sent to Korea. His stay was only about four months, but we were worried all the same.

I feel that David has demonstated courage, loyalty, and strength. Anyone who goes to war has to be a special person. The thoughts that must go through their minds at take-off could drive you crazy. On top of that, thinking that you have to live in a desert for a year with minimum commodities must also be hard. Heroes are special people in others hearts, and deserve some recongnition. I Love you Uncle Dave!