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Heroes come in many shapes and sizes. Some put their own safety at risk to rush into burning buildings, or take up arms to protect their community or country. Others help youngsters reach their full potential, or help those otherwise unable to help themselves.
And yet another group that we'll focus on here helps preserve one of our region's most treasured items -- its history.
On Feb. 21 in Charleston, seven area residents will be recognized during West Virginia History Day at the Legislature as "History Heroes." These men and women have made it their life's mission to help residents today understand our region's rich heritage so that we may better see where we're headed.
Those being honored this year are:
– Dean Connors of Wheeling, nominated by the Victorian Old Town Association;
– Jon-Erik Gilot of Wheeling, nominated by the Ohio Valley Civil War Roundtable;
– Kara Gordon of Glen Dale, nominated by the Fort Henry Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution;
– Gene Gray of Glen Dale, nominated by the Marshall County Historical Society;
– Charles Julian of Wheeling, nominated by the Friends of Wheeling;
– Derrick Smith of Neffs, Ohio, nominated by the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia;
– Terry Williamson of Wheeling, nominated by the Cockayne Farmstead.
The award recognizes those individuals "chosen for dedicated service on behalf of an organization's programs or for recent significant contribution to the state and local history through research, interpretation, publication or preservation.
What an outstanding honor to have bestowed on seven deserving individuals. The Ohio Valley has such a rich heritage, and through the work of these folks, it is being preserved. Congratulations to each of them.