Couldn't agree more regarding heroes.
It is also happening here in Australia.
Professional sports people, earning Millions and a career to boot, are legends, heroes and get a Gong higher than awarded to troops who actually fought on the front line. Not to mention all the millionares who donate their petty cash to a 'cause' and also get higher honours.
Our defence department, bless their souls, have now decreed that only one medal will be issued for all 'active' service.
However, the medal will have a different coloured ribbon for each 'theatre/campaign' and if earned more than once a bar to the ribbon.
Will save the defence dept heaps of money, as all, Army, Navy & Air Force, will all get the same medal.
To make sure everyone gets at least one medal, we have the ADM, Australian Defence Medal, awarded to all in the, Army, Navy or Air Force, who satisfactorily complete their enlistment period.
Medals as honours, no not anymore in Australia.