What is a hero? Are heroes born with a set of distinguishing characteristics that sets them apart, or are they simply ordinary people reacting to extraordinary events and circumstances?
An accepted definition of heroism is the display of exceptional courage in the face of danger, particularly in battle.
In the case of Victoria Cross recipient Commander Rowland Bourke, an introverted nature did not prevent his active involvement in perilous World War One rescue missions at sea.
For Chief Petty Officer Max Bernays, surrounded by smoke and flames at the helm of HMCS Assiniboine, heroism consisted of keeping courage and a cool head as his vessel came under attack from a German U-boat.
For Lieutenant-Commander John Stubbs, Commanding Officer of HMCS Athabaskan, the price of heroism was life itself.
CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum remembers the bravery of these individuals and more in Local Heroes, and celebrates their connection to Canada's West Coast.
