Heroes walk amongst us everyday. Sometimes we realize it, other times we don’t.

The sheer concept of being a hero means you do not expect any type of compensation for your actions of aid or kindness.

The Northern Star, however, feels in specific cases, it is necessary to give special recognition.

Eight area firefighters recently were involved in recovery and aid efforts in hurricane-ravaged New Orleans.

These firefighters volunteered selflessly for the greater need of their fellow Americans, and didn’t expect anything in return.

Such sacrifice of one’s self is a characteristic many are beginning to lose today; it is clear these individuals exemplify the meaning of hero.

Firefighters Eric Hicks, James Zarek, Tony Smith, James Rul, James Clucas and Assistant Fire Chief Bruce Harrison returned to DeKalb last week, while firefighters Greg Hoyle and Dan Freeman remain in Louisiana, according to the DeKalb Fire Department.

The group is not interested in any press or fame, just to get back to work.

While many praised the firefighters for their efforts, Harrison respectfully credited the citizens of DeKalb for the support the group needed.

“We’ve got a good town, willing to do what they can,” Harrison said.

Some may forget the firefighters who remained in DeKalb also bore the brunt of much work while their colleagues were absent.

These service individuals had to serve overtime shifts in lieu of being understaffed.

Add to their workload NIU’s celebrating a home football game at the time.

The weekend, fortunately, passed without incident.

The families of firefighters who made the trip to New Orleans, as well as those who stayed behind, also dealt with intense mental anguish of not always knowing the status of their loved ones.

“My wife Connie has been wonderfully supportive,” Harrison said in a Sept. 23 Northern Star article. “We could not have done this without [the wives]. We were professionally and personally challenged.”

DeKalb, fortunately, will not have to bear any monetary costs associated with sending these individuals to New Orleans or because of understaffing in their absence, said DeKalb Fire Chief Lanny Russell.

Individuals, however, should continue donating to relief efforts, in light of Hurricane Rita’s devastation over the weekend.

NIU students and DeKalb residents should feel honored to have such selfless, thoughtful individuals residing in their town.

At a time when many would not act, these eight individuals proved they can and do go above and beyond the call of duty.

Agree? Disagree? Contact us at

www.northernstar.info