Eastern Iowa Red Cross Honors Quiet Acts of Heroism and Courage

Heroism comes in many different forms. We've seen it recently through the sacrifice of a man to protect his wife in the tornado outbreaks that hit Eastern Iowa hard last weekend and communities banding together in its aftermath. From the businesses and organizations helping embattled Ukraine, as well as those doing what they felt called to do in protecting lives during this long-lasting COVID-19 pandemic and in the wake of this week's devastating school shooting in Des Moines.

American Red Cross of Eastern Iowa honors "Everyday Heroes"

But often, there are everyday acts of heroism on a smaller scale that go relatively unnoticed. According to a press release, the Eastern Iowa chapter of the American Red Cross honors these acts at its annual "Everyday Heroes" breakfast, which was held recently in Dubuque. There were amazing Iowans honored, and these are their stories.

Kinzley Kurth

Vinton's Kinzley Kurth had to use her lifeguard training while on a family vacation.  While swimming with her mother, sister, and boyfriend, she lost track of them as she was approaching the shore. When she looked behind her, they were being pulled in by a riptide. Kinzley swam back to rescue them.

Keith Kramer

Keith was honored for his ongoing volunteerism with a very popular Eastern Iowa nonprofit organization, Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Keith has joined other volunteers in the Delaware County chapter to build 145 beds for children in need just in the last year.

Tanya Kluesner

The Farley resident was recognized for performing CPR, while on the way home from a pharmacy trip, to a motorcycle accident victim whose life was saved by her compressions and waiting until paramedics arrived to take over.

Austin Brown

Austin Brown of Bernard, a firefighter, rescued a mother and her two sons from a fire when the only exit from their apartment building was blocked.

There is a video available, which can be viewed here for those who missed the virtual/hybrid ceremony.

You can learn more about the Everyday Heroes program and nominate someone for the honor here.