A Hero

First established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 the important purpose of Veterans Day is "A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good." We commend and deeply thank all members of our Armed Forces who have and continue to proudly serve our country.

We also think about the meaning behind this holiday and the acts of heroism performed by ordinary individuals each day.

Consider the thousands of men and women across the country that routinely volunteer their time to help others: those who cook in soup kitchens, organize clothing drives and food banks, make hats and blankets for local hospitals, volunteer in nursing homes, and perform countless other acts all in the name of helping fellow citizens. These are the everyday heroes of our communities.

There are also those heroes, like the current owners of Faribault Woolen Mills, who provide new opportunities for their local community. Founded in 1865 this small Minnesota company became a household name with their wool blankets that warmed families, airplane passengers and even soldiers in World War I. However, in 2009 the company went bankrupt due to poor management and a weak economy. For 2 years the factory remained untouched until two cousins from the town of just 23,000 people took a chance and purchased the mill. Both retired, neither Chuck nor Paul Mooty invested in the company for financial gain, rather they wanted to bring opportunities back to the area. Fairbault WoolenMills now employes 35 people, most of them former employees, and expects to have 50 by the end of 2011. (Click here to read the full story)

Take the opportunity this Veterans Day to celebrate and honor all the heroes in your life and consider following in their footsteps.