Governor Chet Culver’s office sent out the following news release today:
DES MOINES- Today, Governor Chet Culver announced the “Aaron Eilerts Day of Service and Giving,” to be held annually in memory of Aaron Eilerts. Eilerts, of Eagle Grove, died on Wednesday, June 11th, as a result of the Monona County tornado, at Camp Little Sioux.
The first statewide “Day of Service and Giving” will take place on February 24, 2009, Eilerts’ 15th birthday. Community organizations are invited to establish local service projects in Aaron’s name.
Governor Culver said: “Aaron Eilerts lived his life as a model for all Iowans. His dedication to his family, the Boy Scouts, and his community, is something all Iowans, and especially our young people, can continue to learn from. My heart goes out to his parents, Bob and Carol, and all who knew and loved Aaron.”
For more information about the life of Aaron Eilerts, please visit the “Aaron Eilerts Memorial” website at: http://aaroneilerts.blogspot.com.
About O.Kay Henderson
Kay is a founding member of the Radio Iowa network newsroom. In 1994, she became the network’s news director. She’s a featured reporter and commentator on Iowa Public Television’s “Iowa Press,” and the 2002 recipient of the Shelley Award.
I concur heartily with Gov. Culver’s decision to declare an annual day of service and giving, honouring the exemplary late Iowan resident and Boy Scout, Aaron Eilerts.
I must add, notwithstanding, that Aaron was very close to having his Eagle Scout badge. What the US Armed Forces calls “Time and Grade” seems to have been the only factor preventing Aaron from already having his Eagle project done. Therefore, in light of Aaron’s notable achievements, and his patent attempt to protect and save the lives of the other 3 late (also very Notable) Boy Scouts who died, I believe that Aaron deserves his Eagle badge, posthumously.
Personally, I believe he deserves the Medal of Honour. No, I am not simply referring to the Scout Valour badge, but I am speaking concerning the Medal given by Congress. The MOH. Aaron’s life of undaunted sacrifice, ceaseless giving, consistent selflessness, incessant giving to the needy at his own expense, superlative academic and athletic achievements, and continual kindness-upon-kindness has affected Iowa, and also this Nation like wildfire.
Aaron Robert Eilerts was “cut from the same cloth” from which notables such as Gen. George Washington emanated. If we would not forget the man who stood tall above most of his peers, let’s also remember the boy who stood equally tall among America’s Youth. Washington gave his best, and Boy Scout Aaron Robert Eilerts gave his All.