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Local heroes are shining example

Re: Katrina's "invisible heroes"

The young men of J&J Tree Service of Lakeland were wrapping up work in Gulf Breeze when the hurricane hit. They obeyed the evacuation order and, thankfully, were able to get themselves and their equipment to safety. This group of men was among the first volunteers Tuesday morning to try to get into the stricken areas of Mississippi to use their chain saws, strength of will and compassion to try and get to anyone who was in need of help.

They don't wear fatigues, and they don't carry guns. More often than not, they wear dirty clothes and exhausted smiles. The sights, sounds and smells are something that will stay with them forever. Even though their situation is not much different from the rest of the survivors, they did what they could to help clear the debris so relief could get in.

I have watched for days the anguish, anger and fear. I have heard about the atrocious filth and near riot conditions. I'm sure by now everyone is well aware how the human race can regress to a feral mob.

I believe now would be a good time to let us see that there is another side, that there is something we can put our faith into, and that there are many more good, decent and compassionate people out there than not! Stop making the powers that be defend themselves about what did or did not happen, and let them get on with it.

These young men from Lakeland are heroes because of their willingness to help and work together. This should be a shining example to the rest of the immediate area and this country. They are young men - now seeing out of old eyes! This cannot go unnoticed.

Please don't neglect to acknowledge our Invisible Heroes! Thank you. One of these young men is my son, Derek Simpson, age 23.

[Last modified September 8, 2005, 10:42:04]