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This is the week L’OBSERVATEUR traditionally publishes a themed edition called “Hometown Heroes.” Hometown Heroes was developed several years ago because the month of May has observances to recognize the armed forces, hospitals, teachers, police, nurses and soldiers who died in active military service.

All of these groups that we honor help our community when we are hurt, need help or protection and give us skills to become better people. Teachers are the cornerstone. They give us the tools we need to read, communicate and find solutions to everyday problems. They give us the most precious gifts to learn how to survive and, with our own effort, thrive.

Hospitals and nurses take care of us when we are hurt or sick. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I am not the most pleasant person when I don’t feel good. Nurses go to work every day knowing that they may encounter a bunch of grumpy sourpusses, that under regular circumstances are perfectly lovely people but will not be at their best. They see us in the most embarrassing situations, but they are compassionate and understanding.

Our police officers help keep us safe as a community. They, too, often see us when we are not at our best, after a car accident or an incident that occurred in our home. They also teach us to be cautious of what may harm us. They are there for us during the worst storms and the best of days. They check on the elderly, and as children we learn that if you are lost or need help to ask a police officer.

Those that serve in our military have helped to keep us safe as a nation. They are why we are able to enjoy the freedoms that we have. Without our armed forces we could be Ukraine. Those that have given their lives defending our country gave the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the future.

The last couple of years has been difficult for our hometown heroes, from COVID to hurricanes and a myriad of things in between our heroes have continued to be there for us. None of these jobs are easy. To all of our heroes: Thank you! You are appreciated for your service and contributions.

Next year, we hope to do a Hometown Heroes edition in the newspaper. In April, L’OBSERVATEUR published a themed Spring 2022 edition of River Parishes Magazine, which included several stories about our local heroes.

 

Christine Browning is general manager of L’OBSERVATEUR. She can be reached at christine.browning@lobservateur.com.