Top Character Strengths

BRAVERY - LEADERSHIP - LOVE OF LEARNING

Captain Aaron Eidem was born on April 29, 1978, in Steamboat Springs, CO. He graduated from high school in Auburn, WA, in 1996 and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Army. Aaron received his Bachelor of Science degree and eventually his Master’s degree. Aaron deployed three times to Iraq and did a tour in Albania. Aaron was recognized for his leadership and excellence in doing his job, earning a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, along with many other service and commendation Medals. He served his country in the Army for almost 20 years as a military police officer and instructor. At the time of his death, he was an adjunct faculty member and assistant professor of military science at Missouri State University. Aaron was a devoted husband and father and made it his priority to spend as much time as he could with his family. He enjoyed hunting with his father and making special memories together. Aaron passed away on February 18, 2016, from injuries sustained in an auto/pedestrian accident when he was trying to save a stranded motorist. He made the ultimate sacrifice while trying to help others. He is survived by his wife, Amber, their three children, his parents, and siblings. A portion of Interstate 44 in Missouri, where he was killed, has been named the “Captain Aaron J. Eidem Memorial Highway” in honor of his service and sacrifice. Aaron was also awarded posthumously the Soldier's Medal and the Order of the Marechaussee in Bronze.

Character Strength Stories:

Bravery - After coming home from his third tour, I asked Aaron if he was ever afraid and he would always tell me no, he was just doing his job. The day he was killed he didn't think twice about putting himself in danger as long as he protected and saved the civilians. I am sure if I was able to ask him again if he was frightened, I know how he would answer. My husband was the bravest man I know.

Leadership - I have been told so many stories from all of Aaron's units he served in about the type of leader he was. They would say he was hard and rigid and would never expect less than their best, but they all trusted and respected him. They knew he was just making them the best Soldiers they could be and ensuring they made it back home alive. I have been told that if it wasn't for him, they most likely would not have.

Love of Learning - Aaron absolutely used his GI Bill to the fullest. Even after receiving his Master’s, he wanted to continue his education and earn even more degrees in different fields. He would say, 'I don't know everything, but I know a little about a lot.’ Aaron was so curious about life, loved learning, and told the most interesting history stories that you would never learn from a text book.

-Submitted by Amber, Surviving Wife

About Travis Manion Foundation

Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) is a national nonprofit that invests in veterans and families of the fallen to lead and serve in communities. Named in honor of 1stLt Travis Manion, USMC, who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq in 2007, TMF is guided by the five words he said before his second and final deployment, “If Not Me, Then Who….”

Through veteran-led service, youth mentorship, and leadership programs, TMF empowers veterans to find renewed purpose and inspires Americans to honor fallen heroes through service. Explore ways to get involved with TMF. Your support helps ensure that the legacy of our nation’s fallen heroes lives on through continued service and leadership in communities across the country. Consider making a donation to support this mission.