Richard Marcinko

A hero is defined as someone that is courageous, brave and noble . These qualities are exhibited by many, but none quite as much as Richard Marcinko, a man who was involved in preserving our freedom through military action. Marcinko is a hero because he has not only commanded his troops, but fought alongside them through some of the most grueling military engagements in history. With the many badges and medals earned, Marcinko has proven that he is a true hero because he strives for the safety of those who cannot protect themselves. He is one of the most important modern heroes and will be remembered as one of the bravest men in the world.

Younger Marcinko in an Officer uniform (www.enotes.com (enotes.com))

Richard Marcinko was born in the small town of Lansford, Pennsylvania. Wanting to view the world, Marcinko left his home to join the Navy at the young age of eighteen. After a few years as a radioman, Marcinko earned a spot on the respected Navy Underwater Demolitions Team (now known as the Navy SEALs). From this point his legend was born. He had many successful assaults during Vietnam, including one where he led his team of SEALs to kill many Vietcong and destroy six of their transport boats. After Vietnam, Marcinko assumed control of SEAL Team Two. After the Iran Hostage Crisis, the United States saw the need for a full time counter-terrorist unit. Marcinko was asked to start this unit. The team of the best hand-picked soldiers in the entire Navy would come to be known as SEAL Team Six. Marcinko chose this name to confuse terrorist groups from around the world to think that the U.S. had three other unknown SEAL Teams. After three years of commanding SEAL Team Six, he started the security group called Red Cell that tested the security of U.S. places from small naval bases to Air Force One. Throughout his life, Marcinko has shown that he is dedicated to the security to the great nation he calls home.

Due to his honorable military career, Richard Marcinko has earned many medals and awards. One of his most famous early awards was the Vietnam Service Medal with four Campaign Stars. These stars signified Marcinko's four tours through one of the worst wars in American history. Marcinko has also earned a Bronze Star Medal with a Valor Device which shows admirable bravery in the face of the enemy. Yet another badge given to Marcinko that separates him from most of the world is the Special Warfare Insignia, showing that he belongs to the highly affective and respected Navy SEALs. However, these are just a few of the many military achievements Marcinko has collected over his years as one of the best soldiers in our military.

Richard Marcinko has not just affected the United States, but has made an impact around the world. He has founded a group of men that's sole purpose is to eradicate threats in any part of the world. Their mission is to destroy those that cause harm to instill in era of peace throughout the whole world. Marcinko has worked to stop the communist Vietnam and to stop terrorism around the world in its tracks. Even though his fighting days are over, Marcinko has turned his legacy to a group of men that will continue to strive for world peace forever. Marcinko will be remembered around the world as the man who made a difference in the way we combat those who try to take away the unalienable rights we have as humans.

Richard Marcinko

To me a hero is not someone that has written a famous speech or developed a new gadget. It is someone who has put themselves in harm's way to better the life of someone else. Richard Marcinko has spent his whole life doing this in hopes of making the world a better place. He has sacrificed so much not just for America, but for the whole world. As someone wanting to join the military, Marcinko is a true inspiration to me because he shows what can be done if you are looking past your personal needs and looking out for the needs of others. I know that Marcinko will be remembered as the hero he is because of the lasting impression he has left upon our planet.