When visitors enter the new heroes exhibit at the Reagan Library, they are greeted with words from the president’s first inaugural speech written across the wall.

“Those who say that we’re in a time when there are no heroes just don’t know where to look,” said Reagan back in 1981. “Their patriotism is quiet but deep. Their values sustain our national life.”

“Heroes: A Celebration of Great Americans at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum” celebrates Rosa Parks, John Hancock and Andrew Jackson, among others. The exhibit opened Aug. 1 and will run through Feb. 1, 2010.

In addition to individuals, groups including astronauts, Medal of Honor winners and the first responders to the 9/11 attacks are honored.

Geri Jabara of Calabasas called the exhibit “fantastic.”

“It comes at a time when people need to remember how much strength and how many heroes we have in this country,” Jabara said. “It’s positive and uplifting.”

Thousand Oaks resident Judy Baumhover agreed.

“I especially enjoy the section on Washington’s Army,” said Baumhover, who used to live in New Jersey near Washington’s Crossing. “When my kids were little I started wanting to learn more about American history and (visited) the sites of the Revolutionary War,” she said, adding that the exhibit is “really well done.”

The exhibit was created for the first time at the Reagan Library, and many of the artifacts have never been seen before by the public.

Weapons, uniforms and documents, including the original 1898 Treaty of Paris that ended the SpanishAmerican War, accompany stories of many of America’s greatest men and women.

A letter from John Hancock written three hours before Paul Revere’s ride and the executive order signed by President Lincoln establishing the Medal of Honor are also displayed.

“This exhibit brings to life the courage and sacrifice demonstrated by heroic Americans,” said Duke Blackwood, director of the library and museum. “This inspirational exhibit serves as a reminder for all who visit that, in the words of President Reagan, ‘It can be done.’”

The uniform of Captain Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger III, the pilot who landed his airliner on New York’s Hudson River earlier this year saving all 150 passengers and crew members, was added to the exhibit on Aug. 7.

The exhibit also includes a “Who Is Your Hero?” panel, which encourages community members to tell the museum about how a personal hero who has changed their lives. Museum staff will pick entrees to be put on display.

The Reagan Library is at 40 Presidential Drive in Simi Valley. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information, visit www.reaganlibrary.com.