Fallen Hero.

For many of us, we look to the future and assume all will fall into place. Often this happens, but sometimes life runs a different, unexpected, course.

One year ago today we lost a young man who really brought something to the community and the school that meant so much to him. His name was Pierre Washington-Steele and he lost his life when he was in an automobile accident last January. Washington-Steele was known to  wear a big smile and was a natural born leader at Glenbard West. It’s interesting because in a very short period of time---he transferred from a school that had closed down---he became one of the most popular kids at school.

Pierre Washington-Steel’s name was heard often at football games, probably more than any other player on the squad; through the speaker you would hear, after a play had ended, the yardage he racked up on the previous play. He was the star running back on the team and in his last season he gained 717 yards---remember this is high school football, not the NFL. Not only was he a gifted football player, but he also excelled in baseball and track and field. What was his secret? He was strong, fast, and smart in the sports he played. Unfortunately when you are behind the wheel of a car, your body can only take so much impact no matter how strong and smart you are.

I was not sure why he had a hyphenated name until I read the paper after his death that his father had been killed by gunfire the year before on Chicago’s south side. After his death he took to hyphenating his name in honor of the family name. That is a very honorable move.

Having heroes in “Our Town” is critical. Whether it’s a doctor who saves a life, a police officer who goes well beyond the call of duty, or a Mother or Father who gives every ounce of their energy to a loved one---we all know of heroes in our lives.

I never met Pierre Washington-Steele but I took many photos of him during what would be his last season. He was not only a fast player, but he knew sportsmanship and the role it played in being a better person.

We need more athletes and human beings like him---after one year, we still think of him in our household.

Thanks for stopping by.