Spring and Summer bring an onslaught of action packed movies sporting muscle-bound studs and mercenary vixens who leap and punch their way into the American culture with gravity defying ease. I admit, I’m guilty of enjoying the latest exploits and theatrics of Captain America, too. But what happens when society places more emphasis on pop culture icons and celebrities (and their sometimes ridiculous and ill-informed political/social stands) than on America’s real heroes? Heroes that defend, protect, rescue, heal, and teach?
I draw this cartoon in the wake of finally taking time out of the studio to watch Captain America: Civil War – a very entertaining movie (if not for the rude people in the theater – but that’s a different commentary) with non-stop action and a plausible story-line. While driving to the theater I heard no less than 15 Memorial Day sale commercials on the radio, saw countless roadside signs declaring 20% off various items, and one audacious billboard that boasted the reason for the holiday was to save big on your next new or used car. The straw (or t-shirt) that broke my metaphorical back was a shirt a kid wore to the movie declaring Captain America the true American hero! Really?! A fictional soldier fighting fictional battles, who can never die, regardless of how many bullets are fired at him, is what our nation considers a real American hero? Is this what we’ve come to?
So, I post this commentary on this most hallowed weekend of remembrance to encourage you, and others who may see this, to put the sacrifices of our nation’s true heroes in perspective. To remember that freedom isn’t free, and to take a moment to cherish our freedom and safety, and those who made it possible.
True American heroes wear many different uniforms, but none wear a cape or carry a Vibranium shield! Remember what so many gave, so that we can celebrate and share what we have.
STAY FIRED UP!
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Paul Combs - Artist 
Paul…great timing on this piece. I am doing a talk tomorrow morning at the Baseball Hall of Fame about September 11 and baseball. Do you mind if I add this picture in to talk to highlight our heroes are in our communities, not our comic books.
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Please feel free to use it. Baseball HOF? Very cool gig! Would love to sit in on your presentation.
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