Courage. It is a word that is synonymous with professional athletes and used freely to describe plays, effort and officials’ calls. “He gave a courageous effort right there,” or “it takes a lot of courage to make that kind of pass in this kind of situation,” are cliches echoed by coaches, broadcasters and fans game after game and year after year.

It is a fair description, but frequently the true meaning of the word is lost or forgotten, as it is lauded on athletes who are simply doing what they are supposed to do.

For the second year in a row the Washington Capitals are doing their best to remind everyone what true courage is and are asking for your help. Through the Courage Caps initiative, the Capitals will raise funds to help the truly courageous men and women who protect and defend our country and their families.

The Capitals are selling Courage Caps for $20 each with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit based in Rockville, Md., that supports America’s military in their time of need. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. The Foundation also ensures that families of service men and women wounded or injured in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom do not pay for their stay at a Fisher House or other base facility if they are on a wait list.

Since its inception Fisher Houses across the United States have served more than 120,000 families, serving more than 10,000 alone in 2007. Fisher Houses are located locally at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Malcolm Grow Medical Center at Andrews Air Force Base and National Naval Medical Center. Fisher House Foundation has saved military families more than $100 million in lodging costs, food and transportation.

The brave men and women in the military display the ultimate meaning of the word courage. They risk their lives to protect ours and serve our country with valor. That is true courage.

You too can show your support of their courageous efforts and join the Capitals as they help to make a difference. All it takes is one Courage Cap; purchase yours today.