Mr. King reflects a larger national mood in appreciating the quiet heroism that goes with this territory.

"These were stories of sacrifice, of quiet heroism," Mr. Isay wrote in the book, "Holding On."

Through their colorfulness and quiet heroism, these characters gradually assume center stage.

The mission was a scene of quiet, humble and unobtrusive heroism and the Indians' shelter.

Jennie's performance during his last months and weeks was a model of quiet, undemonstrative heroism.

And he was determined that quiet heroism would be the theme.

Instead, Dr. Starbuck said, theirs was "the quiet heroism of thousands of poorly provisioned but determined soldiers freezing to death."

I'm going to go out to you, the people, because I want to stay in touch with your hopes, with the quiet, everyday heroism of working families.

Lytol had made several, and the example of the man's quiet heroism rebuked him.

Today, as the survivors returned to their families around South Africa, other accounts of quiet heroism emerged.