The Best of America

The Best of America

New York Post

01.30.07

Yesterday, America once again got a close-up look at the work of an authentic national treasure - the Fisher family of New York.

Through the auspices of the Fisher-founded Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, the Center for the Intrepid - dedicated to the physical rehabilitation of wounded military personnel - opened at the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas.

In 1991, Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher opened the first Fisher House at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., as a place for family members of wounded service personnel to stay while their loved ones receive treatment.

Today, more than 30 Fisher Houses serve military families.

The Center for the Intrepid takes this basic concept of serving those who serve America - and multiplies it 10-fold.

It's a world-class facility focused on medical and rehabilitative care for those wounded in service to America, both active-duty and vets - many of whom have suffered the loss of limbs.

There will be two Fisher Houses in a complex costing $50 million - raised through private donations.

Profound generosity of spirit is a quintessentially American characteristic, and the Fisher family has demonstrated that spirit innumerable times over multiple generations.

Richard and Arnold Fisher now carry on the work of their uncle Zachary through the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund - and this stunning medical center.

The Fishers have shown again what they are: great New Yorkers, proud Americans - and wonderful people.