Every graduate of Bloomington’s High Schools knows the story of Tom Burnett, Jr. Burnett is the Bloomington native who was on board Flight 93 that crashed in the Pennsylvania field on Sept. 11, 2001. For his efforts to wrestle control of the plane from the hijackers and foil their plans, he is considered a hero. The West Bloomington branch of the U.S. Post Office is named after him.
Some maintain America has grown too busy, too commercial or too narcissistic to recognize and promote the good in others. But in Bloomington this week, community activists seized the 9/11 commemoration to raise the profile of leadership and heroism. In reflecting on public service and good works, we find role models, leaders, followers and stewards. It is a time to tell stories, set expectations and seed visions for young people.
On Sept. 11, the Tom Burnett, Jr. Hometown Heroes Awards celebration, sponsored by the Bloomington Crime Prevention Association told stories and celebrated good works.
This year, in addition to re-telling the Flight 93 story, remembrance was made of the late Minnesota Twins legend Harmon Killebrew, whose career and reputation made Bloomington’s Metropolitan Stadium a friendly place for family fun. He was a role model and ambassador who will be missed. Banquet attendees recognized the continued engagement and leadership Bloomington receives from former Congressman Jim Ramstad. After years of elected service, his public life still touches many.
The event also raised awareness of the Citizenship Curriculum experienced by every 8th grader in the Bloomington Public Schools. Volunteerism, morals, community values, ethics, government are some of the many topics handled in an age-appropriate fashion to encourage participation and understanding of the world these young people will inherit.
To overcome the depressing realities of that which is beyond our control, shouldn’t we do more to recognize real heroes? Recognized at Sunday’s banquet, citizen James Glover is one such example. On Mother’s Day of this year, he witnessed an elderly driver veering across freeway lanes and recognizing distress, physically intervened. Seeing that the vehicle was heading toward thousands of people gathered outside Mall of America for the Race for the Cure, Glover purposely drove his car in front of it. While causing a crash, he abruptly halted the driver (who was experiencing medical difficulties) and her potential to harm others. Glover saved lives.
For his leadership and diligence in planning for lockdown situations, Bloomington Police Officer Dan Murphy was awarded the department’s Commendation Medal. Leaders, managers and facilities people are better prepared to handle crisis situations because of Murphy’s work. Bloomington recognizes the value of safe classrooms as well as food courts.
As adults, we send messages every day about behavior and expectations. While an occasional fancy banquet sends a signal of significance, celebrating heroism and telling stories can and should be done at the kitchen table, in the car, or anytime an adult can make the connection.
