Friday; January 13
On January 13, 1982 an Air Florida 737 crashed into the chilly waters of the Potomac River in Washington D.C. The tragedy, which took the lives of over 70 people, played out on national television as news crews captured the events. While the loss of life was unimaginable, it is something else that sticks in my mind. When I think back on the day, the thing that stands out to me is the heroism that was shown that day. First responders, survivors and even bystanders braved the sub-freezing temperatures and did all they could to save lives. It is normal to focus on the loss of life, but it is the inspiring stories of those who risked their own personal safety for their fellow man that continue to endure decades later. Most people never think about becoming a hero and, really, there are few ways to prepare for heroism. About all we can do is to be willing to help. Being a hero starts by taking the time to look around at the needs and culminates in making effort to do what needs to be