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America & Me Essay Contest
When I think of a hero, I imagine a legendary and elite soldier storming the beaches of Normandy on D-Day or fighting to protect Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. I imagine a man who is willing to sacrifice his life while fighting for his country in an audacious struggle against its enemies. But then I also see, right in front of me, a man who is always helping me and looking out for me in my everyday life. A person of historical and sentimental value who has not only been willing to make sacrifices for his country, but also for me. The person, my hero, is my grandfather, Jim Galligan. My grandfather fought in World War II. Even though he did not storm the beaches of Normandy or protect Pearl Harbor, his service was just as important and he still fulfills my ideal of what a hero is. Grandpa Jim was a sailor aboard an aircraft carrier in the South Pacific and has told me many stories of what horrors he witnessed when he was in the largest naval battle in history. My grandfather saw much wanton death and destruction in the Battle of Leyte Gulf. He had to live his whole life with those memories and he was brave enough to do so. My enterprising grandfather also told me stories from the rest of his life after his service in the U.S. Navy. At one time he was the leader of a quartet in which he played the saxophone and performed throughout the state of Michigan. He was a devoted instrumentalist and a charismatic entertainer and the joy he gained from performing and the plaudits he received from his audience have inspired me to work harder on developing my talent with the piano. Grandpa Jim also lived through the difficult and calamitous years of The Great Depression. He had to live off of frugal supplies which made daily life very challenging. It was a very hard time for all Americans to make ends meet but he made it through with dignity. His stories about surviving through those years have helped me to exhibit courage and bravery when going through difficult times myself. All of this took place before my lifetime and the grandfather I know now has Alzheimer's disease and it is becoming increasingly difficult for him to remember the narrative of his life. He is facing the progression of his illness with the same valor and spirit which he has exhibited in confronting the other obstacles in his life. Unfortunately, it is now necessary for others to start taking care of him. He has taken care of and stood by me my whole life, and now I can return the favor. In my opinion, taking care of my grandfather is a privilege; a way to give back and put to use the gifts of compassion and perseverance he has given me. My grandfather lives to this day in a small cottage on the shore of Houghton Lake in a long and happy relationship with my grandmother. Whenever I am up at Houghton Lake, my grandfather always asks me if I am alright and doing well. Even though it is difficult for him, he still wants to take care of me and that makes me feel safe and comfortable. My grandfather's caring and kind spirit has inspired me to be a more compassionate and well-mannered person. He always tells stories when I am up at the lake and the tales he relates to me are amazing. It is my hope that someday I will be able to tell stories of historical value to my grand children to ensure that the past is never forgotten. Our knowledge of the past is the key to understanding the future and losing it would make the future more difficult to face. My grandfather has given me a greater understanding of what bravery, courage, dedication and a care for the past really mean. With this understanding I can view the world, and how it works, with a different perspective. I can see how my grandfather is a true hero and how he has helped and guided me and will continue to do so for the rest of my life. Jim Galligan is my hero and my grandfather.
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