SOUTHPORT teenager Chris Fraser-Perry is just 19.
He has not settled for an easy life, whiling away his hours in a part-time job, he doesn’t go out and get drunk at weekends, he doesn’t vandalise other people’s property whenever he gets bored.
Despite his years he has already earned his place in the Royal Marines, the world’s toughest regiment.
Serving out in Afghanistan, he earned national applause earlier this year when he was among troops who selflessly strapped themselves onto the sides of Apache helicopters as they braved Taliban fire to retrieve the body of a fallen comrade.
Sadly, he has not been awarded a medal for his heroism – but his bravery can only be applauded.
Contrast his strength of character with the cowardice sadly shown by the vandals who threatened, spat at and then threw bottles at local man Geoff Scott after he tried to discourage them from smashing bottles on a quiet residential road in Birkdale.
One of the culprits was hauled before the courts earlier this week, and it is hoped that being named and shamed in the Southport Visiter may make him think twice about what role he should be playing in the community in which he is so fortunate to live.
We all have choices to make in life, the destiny of each of us is of our own making.
Chris Fraser-Perry meanwhile is a true role model for youngsters not just in Southport but everywhere.
He may not have been awarded the medal his courage so clearly deserved.
But in the eyes of everyone in his home town, he is a true hero.
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