We had an essay submitted to us that we'd like to share. Micah Hampton is a fifth grader at Philadelphia's Hamilton Disston Elementary School, and he has this to say:

"Dr. Martin Luther King was a pioneer who strived and endured a struggle for equal rights for African American people. He led peaceful protests by marching boycotts and delivering inspiring speeches. During his life he was dedicated to this cause and inspired African Americans to follow in his footsteps for many generations and because of his relentless nature he became a legend. He was a leader who was respected and loved by all mankind. Among his many accomplishments, he won the Nobel Peace Prize.

Dr. King's hard work is alive and well today. It is like when Olympians are running and passing the torch. Although there have been many crusaders, one of the most important events in our time is the election of our President Barack Obama, the first African American President of the United States of America. This has been a monumental event and not only is President Obama a great president, he was nominated and won a Nobel Peace Prize the first year in office.

I Micah Hampton, pledge to follow in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and President Barack Obama by trusting in God and being a good student, brother, son, and friend. I am striving for peace in my life. Being a good person to all humanity, trying to cure some of the bad things in the world like violence, wars and racism are some of the ways that I can help."

We've just unveiled our latest "Young Heroes" exhibit in partnership with TD Bank. Come on in to the National Liberty Museum and check out the newest awardees, all students who have made the world better by sharing their time, talents, and resources.  Here's one of them:

Erica is multitalented, and boy is she generous with her talents and time! Erica can sing, dance, and act. She excels at academics. She’s opened for Aretha Franklin in front of a sold-out crowd, is a member of Philadelphia’s All City Choir, and dazzled tens of thousands of Phillies fans with her rendition of the National Anthem. Instead of using these gifts for her own glory, though, she uses them to give back. She organizes regular clean-ups around her neighborhood, and performs at events for the Philadelphia Prison System. She has organized voter drives, volunteered for President Obama’s campaign, and translated for citizens on Election Day.

Does her generosity know no bounds? Well, she hasn't found any yet.  Keep up the good work, Erica!

Do you know any heroes, 18 years old or younger, who are doing some outstanding things in your school or community? Nominate them for a 2010 TD Bank Young Heroes Award. To see more of the 2009 TD Bank Young Heroes (and heroes of all ages), visit the National Liberty Museum! We're open Tuesday - Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.