Lately I've been ruminating on the elevation of "did their job" to "heroes," in particular relation to veterans. I think it's important to recognize that anyone doing their job well is contributing to the better well-being of all of us. But the adulation which rides piggyback with the label "hero," when that is routinely applied to all members of the military,* dilutes the useful idea of someone who makes an extraordinary effort, putting the good of others above their own.
Have your vet interactions offered a chance to consider the impact of the "hero army" frame? Does this justify paying troops not very much? providing a healthcare system which is discovered to be grossly deficient, very decade?
* (except for the ones who speak out for human rights)
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branchandroot
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Date: 2013-12-22 03:50 pm (UTC)Lately I've been ruminating on the elevation of "did their job" to "heroes," in particular relation to veterans. I think it's important to recognize that anyone doing their job well is contributing to the better well-being of all of us. But the adulation which rides piggyback with the label "hero," when that is routinely applied to all members of the military,* dilutes the useful idea of someone who makes an extraordinary effort, putting the good of others above their own.
Have your vet interactions offered a chance to consider the impact of the "hero army" frame? Does this justify paying troops not very much? providing a healthcare system which is discovered to be grossly deficient, very decade?
* (except for the ones who speak out for human rights)