While I understand the reason the mass populace would mourn for Dale, you could expect the same outpouring from any athlete or famous person. Remember the coverage of princess Diana's death? Many people do, but to be honest, I believe that there are more important people to grieve over if they are lost...
Don't get me wrong, Dale was an incredible, talented driver, his death was terrible, and he will be missed by millions of NASCAR fans. (Including me) But he was not a "hero" as he is sometimes portrayed.
Wayne Gretzky is one hell of a hockey player, but he is not a hero...
There are many things more important to me than Dale or Wayne....
The teacher that is underpaid, but stays in the profession because of the future of our children...
The health care worker that gives a great grandmother the little extra care that she needs every day...
The fireman that risks his own life to save the lives of others...
And yes, that Marine that stands his post at 2 in the morning in the cold darkness in a foreign land, so that others may sleep soundly.
Those are my heroes, they will never get a sound byte, 15 minutes of fame, a key to the city, or a Winston cup. But they have my heartfelt thanks every day...
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"The Yellowjacket"
1998 Mustang GT
13.97@103
"I am ready to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter."
Winston Churchill.