Almost daily the headlines remind us how unwise it is to put faith in sports legends. Or movie stars. Or politicians. Or captains of industry. So where are the role models of today for our sons and daughters?

We have a suggestion. There is a special group of people many tend to take for granted. There is no special day set aside in their honor, that we know of. No TV series dedicated to their heroism. No organized national recognition of importance to every community in the US - big and small.

Without fanfare, they do their job. Oftentimes putting their lives on the line in the process. There is much to admire about these men and women. From part-time rural volunteer to full-time big-city professional. From the rookie to the Chief. From the firefighter to the fire marshal.

To even qualify for this difficult and demanding work, they have to be physically strong. Dedicated. Intelligent. Resourceful. Highly motivated. And, yes, unselfish. They're certainly not in it for the money!

At a time when many bemoan the lack of heroes, we suggest all of us look down the street to the men and women who protect you and your neighborhood from the ever-present dangers of life.