U.S. Army Sgt. Major Kevin Bittenbender was a hero well before he won two bronze medals at the Winter Paralympics World Cup events.

Bittenbender served his country for 34 years in the U.S. Army.

“Looking after your brothers and sisters, not only in non-combat situations, but combat, it’s a partnership and a relationship,” he told the Sun-Gazette, for an article in this past weekend’s edition.

His message of service to his nation and to his brothers and sisters in the armed forces is an important one for the next generation to learn. But also important is the lesson his competition in the Paralympic World Cup imparts.

To persevere. To meet the challenges of life and to not give up. Even when things are difficult, are grinding and tiresome, Bittenbender worked through it to be ready to shine in international competition.

Many, if not most, of the challenges we face will thankfully be nowhere as severe as Kevin Bittenbender’s loss of his leg. Yet despite the seriousness of the obstacles placed in front of him, Bittenbender continued to strive, to set and achieve goals.

We congratulate Kevin Bittenbender for his successes at the Paralympic World Cup — and we hope readers of all ages can be inspired by the way he continues to meet life’s challenges.