(The following words were spoken by John's father at Seabrook Village in Tinton Falls, NJ on September 12, 2008 at a memorial service for 9/11 victims and those killed in Iraq and Afghanistan)
Our son has been described to us as a hero. He died for our country in a foreign war on terror and was a professional warrior.
Last year, at a tree and plaque dedication ceremony at Bradley Beach School, I asked the students what was a hero. The answers varied, but all pointed toward someone who did something great. Today, I offer my definition as someone who accomplishes a task without being asked. Someone who saw a requirement, figured out what can be done, and went ahead and accomplished the task. John did that and more.
We all can be heroes to others. We need to take the time, observed what is happening around us, list our options, select a course of action, and, of course, accomplish the task. This is a means for us to grow, mature, and have wisdom on your side. I am sure you have identified people with these characteristics. You want to develop these characteristics for yourself in order to be a hero.
Thank you for inviting me to speak today. I hope all of you will become a hero to your family, friends, and co-workers.
God bless you John, and God bless America.
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