Thursday, June 12, 2008
Senator Harkin Statement Regarding Tornado That Ripped Through Little Sioux Boy Scout Ranch
Senator Harkin today conveyed his sympathies to victims, families and friends of those affected by last night’s tornado that swept through the Little Sioux Scout Ranch near Turin, Iowa. News reports indicate that four boys - including 14-year old Aaron Eilerts from Eagle Grove, Iowa - died in the disaster and many more are injured.
"The news coming out of Iowa last night was shocking and it is heartbreaking to hear that we lost four young boys. My thoughts and prayers today are with the families who are grieving for their children," said Harkin. "The news reports showed that the boy scouts lived up to their pledge and were prepared when disaster struck their camp. That coupled with the swift work of local officials helped to lessen the impact of last night’s tornado, and for that I am grateful."
"I saw firsthand the strength of our communities as they banded together to endure the devastation in eastern Iowa, and I am certain that the communities in the western part of our state will do the same. I intend to make sure that the federal government plays a robust role in helping Iowans to recover and rebuild."
Harkin’s Sioux City Office Director, Maureen Wilson, is on the ground in Little Sioux where she will join federal officials and Governor Culver to tour the damage and meet with first responders. Iowans in need of assistance are encouraged to contact the 24-hour Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985.
