MOUNT VERNON — Ian Whitaker, an 8-year-old Cub Scout from Mount Vernon, has been awarded the Boy Scouts of America Heroism Medal for his quick and decisive actions in administering first aid to his injured grandfather. The Heroism Medal is one of the highest honors a Scout can receive. While there are over 2.8 million boys in Scouts, less than 100 will receive a Heroism Medal this year.
When Ian learned about first aid, and how to stay cool in a crisis as part of his Wolf Pack training, he had no way of knowing that these lessons would enable him to be there for his grandfather when help was needed most.
On a visit with his grandparents in January 2010, Ian and his grandfather were watching television together. Moments after his grandpa had gone to the kitchen to get a snack, Ian heard a loud thud. He discovered his grandfather had passed out, fallen and suffered a head injury that was bleeding profusely. Ian applied pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding, called 9-1-1 to get medical assistance, and provided constant care to his grandfather while waiting for help to arrive.
Ian’s quick action prevented a very serious situation from becoming life-threatening and is the reason his grandpa, retired Morrow County School Superintendent Douglas Whitaker, calls Ian “his hero.”
Muskingum Valley Council President Steve Buck commented, “We’re very proud of Ian. He represents the very best of what we hope our Scout programs accomplish — lessons that strengthen character and the chance to use that learning in our everyday lives — in a spirit of service to help others.”
Ian was recognized by the Mount Vernon Fire Department as well as the Ohio State Senate for his heroic action and exceptional presence of mind. Ian will be awarded his Heroism Medal at the Muskingum Valley Council Awards celebration on Saturday in Zanesville.
