Monday, January 19, 2009

An American Hero

I don't think it's too much of a reach to say that America needs heros right now.  

Shortly after 9/11, President Bush looked like he might emerge as that hero.  He played the part well. For eight years he put this country ahead of his own agenda, ahead of politics and ahead of is political popularity and legacy.  The left made him pay a price for that.  I haven't always agreed with everything George W. Bush has done is his years in office, but at the very least, he made us safe in the most perilous times in our history.

Now, another hero emerges.  No doubt, this one will be short lived.  He is a hero, nonetheless.  And for those of us who are not excited about the events of the week, it's refreshing to see a true American Hero make the news headlines for a while.

Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger is the pilot who successfully "landed" a passenger aircraft on (in?) the Hudson River last week, saving the lives off all on board.  He not only showcased unbelievable airmanship but exemplary character as well.  Reports indicate that before leaving the aircraft, he checked twice to ensure that no passengers were left behind.

Sullenberger, 57, of Danville, Calif., is a former fighter pilot who runs a safety-consulting firm in addition to flying commercial aircraft. He had been studying the psychology of keeping airline crews functioning even in the face of crisis, Bea said.

Passenger Beth McHugh, 64, of Charlotte, N.C., said: "That pilot has to be commended. He steered that plane so well. I just can't believe how well he did. We're all alive because of him."

Candace Andersen, a member of the Danville Town Council who lives a few blocks from Sullenberger, said it was an amazing story and that she was proud to live in the same town as the pilot.

"You look at his training, you look at his experience. It was just the right pilot at the right time in charge of that plane that saved so many lives," Anderson said. "He is a man who is calm, cool, collected, just as he was today."

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This blog is about my opinions and world view.  I am a conservative, evangelical Christian.  Generally speaking, if you post a comment, I'll allow you to express your view.  However, if you say something hateful, untruthful, or just generally something I don't like, I may remove it.

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