A recent article in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette discussed the superheros I grew up with-Captain America, Superman, and Batman. The author wrote, "Imagine how Superman could have blown out the burning World Trade Center like a giant candle. Or, better, how Batman could have nabbed the hijackers before they had a chance. The last thing the villains would have heard from him would be, 'Did you really think you'd get away with it?'" As comic book superheros, they are always going to win.

In real life, a happy ending is not always the case. Tragedies do happen, and they are often caused by evil people, as in the September 11 terrorist attacks. But heroes always emerge, real-life heroes who look and act like the rest of us but somehow muster the energy and ability to go beyond normal expectations. They race against time and do whatever is necessary to get the job done.

For example, I read about a lady who came to New York City all the way from Dallas to help in any way she could after the terrorist attacks. She ended up pushing a broom late at night.

"Where are you from," asked one firefighter.

"Dallas," she said.

"You came all the way from Dallas to sweep?"

"I came to do anything to help," she replied. "I'm sweeping tonight because that is where they need me."

The firefighter returned to his duty, finding as many survivors as possible, with renewed energy. This lady and firefighter are not unique. They represent all Americans. We can be very independent people, but when the chips are down and some outsider hurts our fellowman, we are like family willing to give our all while fighting back. My parents, Italian immigrants to America, were proud to become Americans. As a first-generation American, I, too, am proud of my country. Particularly in this time of national tragedy, please God, bless America!

Angelo G. Coppola, Sr. is a graduate of the University of Arkansas with a doctorate in public school administration. He has served as a teacher, principal, superintendent of school, Arkansas State Department of Education employee, and presently is the Deputy Director for the Arkansas Teacher Retirement System. A retired Naval Officer and a member of the Executive Board for the Quapaw Council Boy Scouts of America, Dr. Coppola is also a Past Master and presently the Secretary of Albert Pike Lodge No. 714 in Little Rock, Arkansas. He is a member of the York Rite and began serving as the Grand Chaplain for the Grand Lodge of Arkansas in February 2001.