Special to Iredell Free News
Leela Church has been awarded the National Medal of Honor by Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont.
In December of 2021, the Statesville teen attempted to save her older brother Dawson’s life after an ATV accident at her home. Her quick reaction and steady presence after the accident was critical in helping her brother until medical crews arrived on the scene.
Leela is a Girl Scout Cadette and member of Girl Scout Troop 12965. She is the daughter of Allen and Karen Church.
The Medal of Honor can be given to a Girl Scout after saving a life or attempting to save a life without risk to their own. Lifesaving Awards are national awards that have always been a part of the Girl Scout movement and are reserved for those Girl Scouts who have performed heroic acts beyond the degree of maturity and training to be expected at their age.
Training in health and safety is inherent in the Girl Scout program. Girl Scout leaders and volunteers teach girls proper instruction in how to take care of themselves and others in emergencies. Girls in turn learn to be resourceful, skilled and competent in situations where others may need their help.
“Leela, in performing CPR during the aftermath of her brother’s tragic ATV accident, lived up to that expectation to an extraordinary degree. She is a testament to the highest principles of the Girl Scout Promise and Law and embodies what it means to be a girl of courage, confidence and character who makes the world a better place,” said Jennifer Wilcox, CEO of Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont. “As our founder Juliette Gordon Low once said: ‘Scouting rises within you and inspires you to put forth your best.’ Leela’s actions reflect the truth of Juliette’s words, and we are proud to recognize her and join her and her family in honoring the memory of your brother, Dawson.”
About Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont
Girl Scouts Carolinas Peaks to Piedmont, a United Way agency, is one of 111 councils nationwide chartered by Girl Scouts of the USA to deliver Girl Scout program within specific geographic boundaries. The local council serves nearly 7,000 girls and 4,500 adult volunteers in 40 counties and maintains three camp properties and four service centers offering unique experiences for girls and adults. For more information on how to join, volunteer, reconnect or donate to GSCP2P, call 800-672-2148 or visit www.girlscoutsp2p.org.