By DAVID EPPS
Pastor

Since Sept, 11, 2001, the definition of an American "hero" has been redefined.

For too long a period, "heroes" were drug-ridden rock stars, overpaid athletes, and amoral or even immoral Hollywood actors and actresses. But, on Sept. 11, which saw firefighters and police officers rush into danger when others were running away, the perception changed.

One New York Fire Department assistant chief, upon arriving at the scene of the World Trade center disaster was overheard to say, "Firemen will die today." Then, he too, rushed into the hellish inferno along with his men. He was one of those who died that day.

Over three thousand people died Sept. 11 and, of those, many died trying to protect or rescue others. Todd Beamer of Flight 93 and Father Mychal Judge, chaplain of the FDNY and the first official death of the 9/11 disaster, were typical of the many who died giving their lives as a sacrifice for others.

Which, of course, is what heroism is all about putting the safety of others before self interest. Which is how Josh Slepicka became a hero Aug. 13, 2002.

Peachtree City is said to have over 9,000 golf carts within the city limits of this community of some 40,000 residents. People outside the community chuckle when they hear of such incidents as "golf cart accidents" but such incidents, which can be deadly, are no laughing matter.

On Aug. 13, Josh was a passenger in a golf cart which was being driven by a family friend. Through a series of events, which are not relevant to the telling of this story, a terrible accident occurred. Also riding as passengers in the golf cart were Christian Slepicka, age 5, and Noah Slepicka, age 2.

All passengers, except one, were ejected from the vehicle and several injuries were suffered. Within a short period of time, emergency service personnel arrived on the scene and began to treat the injured. Eventually, the injured would be taken to Egleston Hospital, Fayette Community Hospital, and Southern Regional Hospital. One witness said that there was "blood everywhere." The children were screaming in pain and terror.

When paramedics got to Josh, he refused treatment. He would not allow himself to receive help, he said, until they "took care of his little brother." Josh, who is eight years old, was adamant that he would not allow treatment until Christian, age 5, was looked after.

Josh would require treatment for injuries to his leg and the pain must have been intense. Even the veteran police officers and emergency service personnel were impressed with his courage and compassion.

A few days later, the Peachtree City police officers of evening shift, "B-Watch," presented a few special gifts to the Slepicka children. Little Noah was given a toy police car (complete with sound) and Christian received an NYPD 12-inch action figure and "get well" card. But for Josh, there was something special. Josh was presented with a framed certificate, signed by the watch commander and the shift supervisor, which read, in part:

"The Officers of the Peachtree City Police Department wish to formally recognize JOSH SLEPICKA

Who, on August 13, 2002, did, with selfless disregard for his own injuries received in a serious accident in the City of Peachtree City, refuse medical treatment until his little brother, Christian Slepicka, was first treated.

This showed the utmost bravery and character, and is therefore worthy of Honorable recognition."

At the top of the certificate, in bold letters, for all the world to see, are the words CERTIFICATE OF HEROISM.

It's doubtful that Josh was thinking of heroes and heroism Aug. 13. It's doubtful that passers-by, seeing a little 8 year-old boy covered in blood and grimacing in pain would have guessed that within his young breast beat the heart of a hero. But Josh wasn't concerned about heroic words or actions. He wasn't even concerned about his own injuries and pain. He was concerned about his 5-year-old little brother. Which is how and why Josh Slepicka became a genuine hero Aug. 13, 2002, to the seasoned veterans of evening shift-B Watch, of the Peachtree City Police Department.

[Father David Epps is rector of Christ the King Charismatic Episcopal Church in the Coweta/Fayette County area of south metro Atlanta. He may be contacted at FatherDavidEpps@aol.com or at www.ctkcec.org.]

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