James W. Feeney

When people hear the word "hero," so many thoughts come to mind; the firefighters who rushed into the World Trade Center when so many were running away, our soldiers overseas, doctors, but I know that when I hear the word hero, I think of my dad. I know for a fact that I would not be where I am today without my dad's support and guidance. Through even the toughest of times, my father has helped shape me into a better person; someone who has to ability to persevere throughout any obstacle. He is not only an example of a hero; he helps my family and me to become truly better people. I know that my time at the academy will be difficult, and sometimes unbearable, but I can truly appreciate the fact that I have someone who will look after me, and make sure that I always do my best. My father is a hero to me because he inspires me to succeed, and helps me to reach my full potential.

Now what defines a hero? My definition of a hero is someone who will sacrifice for others, is a good role model and a good person. I think both my parents have done great deeds to help my family, and I know that they will do anything to make sure we are happy, but whenever I look up to someone, it is my dad. My father always puts our family first. He will always look at the well-being of the family prior to that of his own. I truly admire someone that works close to twelve hours a day, yet still has time to spend with his family.

During my junior year in high school, I was competing in the State Championships for crew. It was a frigid, rainy weekend in upstate New York, and my family came up for the race. My boat successfully reached the championship race yet, unbeknownst to me, my brother was taken to the hospital because he had an allergic reaction. My parents informed me, and I could understand why they had to depart a day early, yet I was saddened when I learned that they would not be attending the race. I set off for the race the next day, which we ended up winning. As I came back onshore, I saw my father, umbrella in hand, ready to congratulate me. He had waited to see the race before leaving. My dad always finds time to attend one of my baseball games, or pick me up from the ferry when I leave the academy; the fact that he finds time for everyone in my family truly amazes me.

I not only admire my dad for the sacrifices he makes, but also for what he does to help my family. He is one of the hardest working men I know. Ever since I was little, my dad has always worked long, strenuous days, sometimes working two jobs. When I was in elementary school, my father's job was relocating to another state. My dad knew that my sibling and I did not want to move, so he declined to stay with the company. He was aware of the struggle it would be to not have a job, and immediately began searching for one. In the meantime, he worked two part time jobs, whilst continuing his search for a steady job. His hard work and perseverance were rewarded, and he still works for the same company today. My father is a true example of hard work and dedication, and demonstrates the hard work and character that are needed to succeed.

My father is also someone to whom I can turn for guidance. Whenever I question myself, or I am just having a difficult time, my dad is right there waiting to help. He seems to always have advice for any situation. There have been times in my life when it seemed nothing was going right, and yet, after talking to my dad, nothing seemed so bad. Senior year was one of the toughest times for my family and me. I remember one day in April, my mom and dad called us all in to a room, and delivered some of the most devastating news I had ever had. The doctors discovered that my mom had breast cancer. It was one of the scariest moments of my life, yet my dad had a way to calm my siblings and me down. He reassured us that everything was going to be fine, and I had to believe him. Since then, my mom has undergone her treatment, and all is looking well. I thank my dad for helping me endure one of the most challenging times of my life.

I have always felt like I have been living in the shadow of my father. I have heard so many stories about him growing up that, at times, I felt maybe I can't live up to him. My father was scouted to play major league baseball, but declined to try-out. He was an exceptional athlete, in both high school and college. I was made aware that athletics do not come as naturally to me as they did my dad, and I have always been working to be the best at everything I do. I am overwhelmed with joy when my father congratulates me on my accomplishments. I endeavor to surpass my peers, both on and off the field; that is why I attend the Coast Guard Academy. I remember the day I was accepted into the Coast Guard Academy; it was the happiest I had seen my dad in a long time. Sometimes I question the decisions I make, and it's reassuring to hear my father say "If I could do it all over again, I wish I could have made the mature decisions you have made."

My father is my hero; he exemplifies a type of man I yearn to portray. His character defines him as a morally good person, and he is a man I consult with for guidance. One night an upper class cadet asked why I applied to the academy and why I am still here. I knew why I wanted to come here, but I didn't really know what to say when asked why I was still here. Then it struck me. I am here for my dad. I won't quit because I want to make my dad proud, and I know that this place will make me a better person like my dad. That is why he is my hero. He supports me, and causes me to strive to be the paramount son.