Education and the Need for Heroes

Abstract

O ne of the key features of effective learning is emulation. It is not enough to encourage learners to memorize information or develop motor skills. We cannot simply ‘‘download’’ such abilities. Instead, they need to see what such knowledge and abilities look like in realworld practice and to have an opportunity to develop and practice them under the supervision of a dedicated teacher. Yet many teachers have little theoretical understanding of emulation. To help provide a practical standpoint from which to understand it, we need to explore the phenomenon of heroism, and in particular the important role of heroes as ideals toward which learners can strive. This article focuses on a particular 20th-century hero of the United States Marine Corps. In ancient Greece, heroes were demigods, the product of mortal and divine parents, such as Heracles. With time, the idea evolved to refer to human beings who managed to exhibit great courage and dedication in service to others. At times when discouragement and cynicism seem to hold sway, it is especially important that we reflect on heroes and heroism. More than reviewing policy and procedure manuals or codes of ethics, reflecting on heroes invites us to shift our focus from what we should do to who we should be. Moreover, it is often in the attempt to emulate our heroes that we most enhance our own performance and character. Yet heroes are never perfect, and there are lessons to be learned from their weaknesses as well as their strengths. Lewis ‘‘Chesty’’ Puller is the most decorated of all US Marines, and the only one to be awarded five Navy Crosses. Born in Virginia in 1898, Puller grew up listening to the stories of Civil War veterans who held Stonewall Jackson in high regard. Puller enrolled in the Virginia Military Institute but left after a year to serve as a marine in World War I. He grad-