This email makes good points about why we don’t hear more of these stories of heroism:

“Rich –

Thanks for your story on Sergeant Peralta heroism. As you mention at the end of the article, media stories of heroism have been almost non-existent throughout this War. Given the vicious fighting that has been going on, I have to believe there are a lot of these kinds’ of stories that have to be told. Part of the reason is I think is the lack of willingness of our military men and women to acknowledge their own heroism because they believe their comrades are just as heroic as they are. In addition, while there is likely some media bias in not wanting to go out and get these stories, many of the media who are not imbedded with units cannot travel safely to get these stories.

I am not sure how to fix it, but I think it is really important that these stories be told not only because these men and women deserve to be recognized for their sacrifices, but also as we hear the stories about the inevitable mistakes and tragedies that come with war, we need to know what works well.”