American Unselfishness Definition

The Medal of Honor is the highest award to be given to a courageous individual in the Armed Services of the United States for an act of valor against an enemy force. This award, being so honorable and prestigious, is generally awarded by the President of the United States in the name of Congress. It was introduced on December 9, 1861 when Iowa Senator James W. Grimes created a bill that authorized awarding the medals of honor. The goal of these awards was to enhance the efficiency of the Navy and, having seen its value, Congress passed the bill on December 21, 1861. To the present day, the Medal of Honor awards and recognizes those who exemplify extreme bravery, leadership and dedication to their country. Stephen Holden Doane is just one
Lieutenant Doane displayed extreme levels of unselfishness as shown through his actions in the Vietnam War. Stephen saw the needs of his men before his own. He understood that the only way to save his men and to get the three leaders the help that they needed was by sacrificing his own life, putting his own need for help aside. Thus, unselfishness is so important in being an effective leader because it allows the leader to put aside his own needs and desires in order to successfully achieve a common, unifying goal for the entire group. The goal of a group generally focuses on the needs of everyone, so an effective leader must do everything that he possibly can to promote the goal of the whole group, not just himself. I have witnessed my grandmother display unselfishness time and time again as she always gave money to anyone on the streets seeking help. The reason why they sought financial help did not matter to her - whether it was a charity, a veteran, a homeless person, a sports team, she always acted selflessly and gave whatever she could in that moment to them, even if it was only one dollar. She led by example with this unselfishness, as my father adapted this trait as well, always giving what he has in this situation. As a result, my mother, my brother and myself always try to donate what we can whenever we see help being sought on the streets. Thus, thanks to my grandmother’s leadership through
Lieutenant Doane demonstrated immense courage and bravery in the war, risking his own life despite any fear he had of the enemy, and especially of death, when he lunged himself into the enemy territory with a grenade. His courage is admirable in that he bravely acted to help others regardless of the daunting outcome of his actions. Such courage requires complete self-giving and strength, which is why it is necessary to be an effective leader. To be a leader, one must put aside his own fears to accomplish something and to lead others with bravery and confidence. Thus, courage enables a leader to stand up for what is right, what is necessary and what must be done in order to successfully shepherd others. A time when I witnessed courage was when my father went into work the day of the bombing at the Boston Marathon. As a State Trooper, it is his job to protect the people despite any fear or weariness. To see him go to help others, putting himself at risk during a difficult, dangerous and frightening time was extremely inspirational and