Your invitation to readers to acclaim the heroes of the bushfires by writing to The Daily Telegraph next Tuesday is a brilliant idea (Share the love for our heroes, 15/1). A powerful forum like this will be inspirational to all. The pen is indeed mightier than the sword. Words of encouragement are a critical motivation to those facing great hours of hardship and personal risk. The gratitude to others for their sacrifice should be easily verbalised. When charismatic political leadership is as vacuous as Australia’s water supply, others must step up. Recently, in your columns, I complimented elements of the army for their rescue efforts. A helicopter pilot’s relative passed on the appreciation of the team. My interpretation of their comments was that public approbation was not common for them to hear. We do no harm in recognising the value of those helping us at this time. Bravo to the Telegraph for its ongoing benevolence to our communities. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 16Jan2020.