A hero does not always wear a cape or hide behind a mask. In fact, some of them live among us.

You see, real-life heroes often do not seek recognition for their good deeds - they just care enough to do things that make the lives of those around them better.

It is that time of year again - when The Ironton Tribune honors the unsung heroes of Lawrence County. From now through Feb. 18, The Tribune will be accepting nominations for our annual Unsung Heroes. Some will

be chosen to run in the Our Heroes section of Profile 2004, which will publish Sunday, Feb. 29.

What is an Unsung Hero? Simply put, it is a person who has given selflessly of themselves for the betterment of their community and their fellow citizens. Really, the only qualification is caring.

An "Unsung Hero" can be anyone from someone who risked their life to save another to someone who, by a simple act of kindness, helped their fellow man.

An "Unsung Hero" can be somebody who volunteers at a church or school or someone who has spearheaded a project that will benefit the entire community.

An Unsung Hero does not seek attention or thanks. That is why we do not always hear about the good deeds of others.

We know a lot of these people are out there, but we need your help in locating them.

Use one of the forms

on page 5A of today's edition to nominate somebody.

Nominations need to include the nominee's name, contact information and your reason for making the nomination.

If you wish to remain anonymous, that's OK, too. We just ask that you provide your name to us so we can contact you if we have any questions about the nomination. However, we will, at your request, keep your nomination private.

If someone has made a difference in your life or that of someone close to you, let everybody know. Nominate them as an Unsung Hero.

Shawn Doyle is managing editor of The Ironton Tribune. He can be reached at (740) 532-1445, ext. 19 or by e-mail at shawn.doyle @irontontribune.com