No son, I don’t think Captain America is dead. We are just getting to the good part..

Nothing embodies the American spirit to me quite like Captain America – that fictional composite of virtuous American qualities brought to us by the good folks at Marvel. My Grandfather had Uncle Sam.  My dad had Superman and those Gen X’ers through Z like me, have Captain America.  Military folks have a special affinity for the Captain. If you're paying attention you can easily spot us by our haircuts, good posture and the star spangled shield on our chests.  The Captain is optimistic.  He is educated, sharp and ready to engage. He is self-sufficient but he appreciates the power of a team.  He does not cower in the face of adversity. He sacrifices selflessly by placing the needs of others above himself. His moral courage is without question and he expects no less from others. He stares down evil and picks a fight with the bad guys. He is loyal to his friends and his country, and his compass always points true North. In a culture where these virtues are conspicuously absent, you need only look to your left and right and you will see Captain America. His spirit endures in the men and women of the Armed Services and our first responders.  He can be found in the heart of the student, the teacher, the engineer, the business professional, the pastor and everyone who loves this country and lives with a sense of patriotic duty and purpose.   Dark times may be upon us, but it is at this point in the story where the super hero tests his mettle and wins the day. We are just now getting to the good part! Happy Independence Day!