In this modern age when advanced technology has brought us digitally engineered movies about how superheroes have impressively saved the world, with Batman now conquering the scene after the blockbuster hit ‘The Dark Knight’ made it to the second spot in the list of top grossing movies of all time (second only to Titanic), many people hold on to the hope of having real-life superheroes. I actually believe that one of the several key factors that made this movie very successful is the fact that the superhero – Batman or Bruce Wayne – is actually a human being, without supernatural powers.

In reality, people always look for the truth amidst the sea of virtual realities. We always search for a real hero in our midst – the hero who would defend and protect our safety and independence, and they don’t really need to come from another planet.

I believe that we are extremely lucky to be in the ‘land of the free’ and to have true brave warriors, such as the US Navy SEALs, who are willing to fight so we can keep our freedom. We are certainly aware that the things they do in training and in actual battle are no light stuff. They push their strength to the limits, endure the physical and mental pain, and face the enemies who threaten our stability.

Sometimes, it is difficult to fathom a man’s desire to face danger so others may be spared. Why would anyone leave his family and friends, subject himself to an extreme training and put his life on danger to protect people most of whom he does not even know? I believe this is what we can really call ‘heroism’ – without the hype, without the unrealism.

The US Navy SEALs are our real-life modern-day heroes. We rarely see them on TV or in the movies, but for me, they are the real champions in this world full of make-believes.