Capt. Aaron Eidem’s life of service ended while helping people in need.

Eidem died Feb. 18, 2016, while assisting stranded motorists on Interstate 44, about five miles west of Springfield. He was an adjunct faculty member and assistant professor of military science at Missouri State University since 2014.

It’s that act of heroism that earned him the Soldier’s Medal, the highest U.S. award for heroism not involving armed conflict with an enemy. The act must have involved personal hazard or danger and the voluntary risk of life.

Award ceremony set for Jan. 18

Maj. Gen. Christopher P. Hughes will award the medal to Amber Eidem, who survived her husband, at a ceremony 4 p.m. Jan. 18 at the Plaster Student Union Theater. The event is free and open to the public.

“Aaron took action without regard for his own personal safety and paid the ultimate price,” said Lt. Col. Scott Morris, military science department head. “He was always one to put others first. He embodied the best in all of us. His example is a powerful one.”

Eidem served in the armed forces for almost 20 years as a military police officer and instructor. He earned the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, served in Germany and was deployed to Iraq three times.

For more information, contact Morris at 417-836-4357.