As he described the actions of a SEAL who threw himself on a hand grenade to save his friends, the president was crying. I think it's interesting how people attach themselves to heroes and heroic deeds. So often, the wannabees are the most emotionally invested. Not that there's anything wrong with getting choked up about somebody who made a big sacrifice or did something dangerous. It's just fascinating that so many people who would be the first to run from danger are so outspoken in their admiration of heroism.

Personally, I would run away faster than anyone else, but I don't feel much emotional attachment to people who throw themselves on grenades. I guess I can't imagine myself doing something like that, so I can't relate to that selfless bravery thing that motivates heroes. I admire it, but I think it's also a bit odd.

By the way, what is a SEAL team doing on a rooftop, shooting it out in a firefight? Since when do we use special forces units to supplement regular combat troops? It seems pretty common now, but when did this trend begin?