Heroes must never be forgotten Published Sept. 7, 2010 By Master Sgt. Vicki Dominguez Vosler NCO Adacemy PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The word patriotism comes from a Greek word meaning 'fatherland'. For most of history, love of 'fatherland', or homeland, was an attachment to the physical features of the land. But that notion changed in the eighteenth century, when the ideals of democracy, socialism, and communism strongly emerged into political thought. Patriotism was still a love of one's country that included connections to the land and people, but then also included its customs and traditions, pride in its history and devotion to its welfare. On Aug. 21, 36 students and 10 staff members from the Forrest L. Vosler Noncommissioned Officer Academy participated in the 18th Annual Salute to American Veteran's Parade in Cripple Creek, Colo. This was also the 23rd Annual POW/MIA Recognition Ride to honor those veterans who proudly served our great country. More than 3,000 motorcyclists participated in the ride. There was a very strong sense of patriotism at this event. We were greeted by event representatives upon our arrival, who were in charge of letting us know where we were going to be in the marching line-up. Other military counterparts that participated in the parade consisted of Soldiers, the mounted Calvary, and some JROTC Marine Corps cadets. We, as the NCOA students and staff, were the only Air Force formation in the event. I am really grateful we had the opportunity to march in this parade to show-off our true colors. I'm sure the students and rest of the staff felt just as obliged to partake in this event. As we marched down the main road in Cripple Creek, I felt proud to be an American. I felt proud to be wearing this uniform. The appreciation was overwhelming from the citizens of Cripple Creek and those who were visiting to watch the parade. Comments from the crowd were "those people fly planes and save people," "Go Air Force", and the greatly appreciated "Thank you" was heard from many people as we marched the one-mile route. The American military has always been made up of ordinary men and women. In combat or in emergencies, ordinary people do extraordinary things. Our Air Force has given blood, sweat and tears and has never expected recognition. Our children deserve to know what a hero is. There are potentially thousands of Americans who have been called on to defend democratic values and to help keep the peace in nations around the world. American men and women fought bravely in many battles and have honored their country through exceptional actions under the most horrific conditions. Democracy has not come easy for the United States -- a long and deadly civil war can attest to that. Those who fill military roles believe the values of their country serve to make it a better country. Many American lives have been affected by the fighting and loss of life in various wars around the world in the past and today. Their heroism and why they fought for the United States must never be forgotten, which is why we at the NCO Academy enjoy participating in events such as this. Our heroes must never be forgotten.