The term “hero” is one of the most overused — and misused — in the English language.

We attach the word to men who can hit baseballs long distances, or run fast on a football field, or win basketball games with last-second shots from mid-court.

Kevin Vickers, though, at age 58, is the real deal.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/22/world/canada-shootings-hero/index.html?hpt=hp_t1

He is the sergeant-at-arms of the Canadian Parliament who this week took down a gunman who was terrorizing the seat of government in Ottawa, Ontario.

Vickers shot the gunman, who reportedly was launching some sort of “jihad” against the Canadian government in the wake of that country joining with other nations in the fight against the Islamic State.

The shooter entered the building and began blazing away, killing a constable.

Vickers was carrying a firearm as well and he used efficiently.

Canadian authorities haven’t yet confirmed what everyone in the building apparently saw with their own eyes, that Vickers acted heroically to stop the killer from doing even more damage.

So, today he received a standing ovation from members of Parliament who resumed their business.

And what does a hero say about his deed? Vickers said this: “Yesterday, during extraordinary circumstances, security personnel demonstrated professionalism and courage. I am grateful and proud to be part of this team.”

Heroism is alive and well.