Hero. It is a small word with a big meaning — and near infinite possibilities when it comes to determining who lives up to this moniker.

In the simplest terms, according to the word experts at Webster’s Dictionary, a hero is: “a: a mythological or legendary figure often of divine descent endowed with great strength or ability; b: an illustrious warrior; c: a man admired for his achievements and noble qualities; d: one that shows great courage.”

But those are just letters on paper and cannot truly capture the essence of what makes someone a hero.

Of course the men and women who serve in our armed forces, law enforcement agencies, as emergency responders and on other crisis teams often fall into this category.

But there are many others who live up to the ideals we associate with being a hero.

It may be the school teacher who goes above and beyond to ensure his students not only learn the subject matter but actually enjoy it.

Or maybe it is the business professional who still finds time to donate hundreds of hours of her time toward a variety of community projects that simply wouldn’t be possible without dedicated volunteers.

How about the senior citizen who struggles to make ends meet but always finds a way to lend a hand to a friend, a neighbor or even a total stranger.

All of these people are heroes, too. In fact, all were Unsung Heroes in The Tribune’s annual Profile edition published last year.

Has someone you know gone above and beyond the call of duty? Do you know a man or woman whose love and support have helped their families and communities? Does a friend or neighbor standout from others while never seeking attention?

The Tribune wants you to tell us — and our readers — about that person.

Look for an advertisement and submission form in today’s edition or just send it directly to me.

The best nominees will be featured with a story and photo in this year’s edition, which will be published Feb. 26.

Nominations must be submitted by Friday, Feb. 3.

Please include your name, address and phone number with your nomination for verification purposes. If the nominator requests,we will protect his or her identity. Individuals may nominate as many people as they like.

Our community is filled with heroes, many of whom never seek publicity or attention.

It is that humbleness that helps make them worthy of this honor.

 

Michael Caldwell is publisher of The Tribune. To reach him, call (740) 532-1445 ext. 24 or by e-mail at mike.caldwell@irontontribune.com.