The Public Hero

When we watch superhero tv and film, we may notice two types of superheroes: public heroes and private heroes.  The public heroes have no issues with be caught during daylight hours in full uniform grabbing a cup of coffee.  They don’t see their uniform as being any different than the uniform one wears to work or specialized clothing for the gym/sports.  The private heroes prefer to stay out of the spotlight, though they may have some public contacts.

We see the public heroes in film and television such as ‘Mystery Men’, ‘Peacemaker’, ‘The Tick’, ‘Watchmen’ (okay, not really Rorschach's thing), ‘Avengers’, etc.  We don’t see this with Batman or Blade or Wolverine or Rorschach.

Restaurant scene from 'Peacemaker' episode 1.

Making the choice to be a public hero can lead to a more positive public reputation.  It will, most likely, provoke some ridicule at first.  People will want to know “why?” - why are you doing this?  Why are you dressed that way?  This can be mitigated with a preconceived response that is cordial.  You can also bypass some ridicule if you work with a partner or a group.

Remaining cordial. This is pretty essential for public heroes. Your attitude and actions are going to reflect on those around you. Public heroes will end up as public figures, so represent the community as best you can. You don't have to like everyone, just be nice and get out of there fast. Be helpful. Be willing to talk to people - they may really need it.

Public heroes, as we see in film/tv and comics, will often have regular spots they frequent.  This is, firstly, strategic; and, secondly, a way to promote a positive nature.

The strategy of having a regularly frequented spot gives you:

• A place where you can feel safe when out on patrol.

• A place to take a bathroom break or grab coffee.

• A location to regroup with your partner or team.

• A location that could have your back if you get into a pickle.

• A location where you can gain respect from staff and regulars.

In turn, what starts as strategy also becomes promotion of a positive nature.

It should be stated that just because your a public hero, it doesn't mean everyone knows your secret identity.

Steps to Become a Public Hero

1. Make sure anyone you work with is cool with this.  It helps to have everyone or most onboard.

2. Plan your patrol route to end or have a stop at a certain location, like a coffee shop or a bodega or something like that.

3. Go on patrol and aim to spend like 20-30 minutes at that location, if you can.  Learn the server’s name, make some small talk, talk with your partner/team, and then take off.

4. Repeat on next patrol.

That’s really all it takes.