Heroes at Home on MyNetworkTV

By Ally Matteodo

The television special Heroes at Home garnered this week’s title of Best TV Show of the Week.  Airing on MyNetworkTV at 8:00 p.m. ET on November 11, 2008 (appropriately, Veteran’s Day), the two-hour special followed the stories of six injured servicemen and their struggles in adapting to life back home.  Victor Rivera was shot through his foot in Iraq.  Upon his return home he and his wife Alyssa, along with their new baby Cecilia, lived in a house replete with hand-me-downs and furniture from the Salvation Army.  Sergeant Tracy Ford jumped out of her vehicle in Iraq and landed on her weapon, severely injuring herself. She underwent several surgeries to deal with her injuries.  Tim Hernandez had acid fly onto his face during combat.  Sean Long was shot by friendly fire and suffered injury to his leg, and also had to deal with a crumbling marriage.  James Hoke, a mechanic for the air force, turned to his family and church for solace, but also faced heavy monetary demands.  And Chris Strickland, a cavalry scout in Iraq, returned home after losing a hand. 

After the veterans’ stories were told, Sears thanked them for their dedication and sacrifice by renovating their homes and providing them with new furniture and gift cards.  The soldiers were profoundly and sincerely grateful; but all insisted that it was enough to just serve their country, and they never expected anything in return. 

This program is laudable for its examination of a segment of our society that is often overlooked and unappreciated.  America’s servicemen and –women enter combat because of their sense of duty, not out of a desire for fame or glory. The humble attitude of our veterans is truly amazing. They are heroes to everyone else, but do not consider themselves as such.  Every one of these soldiers faced challenges upon returning home, but they handled these challenges with aplomb rather than depression or bitterness. And Sears’ actions in helping those who have sacrificed so much encourages us to take action in assisting others.  Even a small act of kindness can have a profound effect.

For honoring America’s veterans, Heroes at Home is the Best TV Show of the Week.