98.1 KHAK First Responder Friday Honors David Eilander

Every Friday morning at 6:30 a.m., 98.1 KHAK's Brain & Courtlin pay tribute to an Eastern Iowa first responder during our 'First Responder Friday' segment! The weekly honoree receives a $25 gift card to Wild Hogs Saloon and Eatery in Walford and a $25 gift card to Honor and Respect.

Today we're honoring David Eilander, who was nominated by another one of our First Responder Friday honorees, Jessica Eilander! The entry reads:

"David Eilander has been in a first responder position since he was 18. He started as a firefighter in his hometown of Kellogg, and then became an EMT. He's been answering the call ever since! David is also a dispatcher for Tama County and Benton County. He has always made his community a priority in his life, and enjoys taking the time to talk with people about what he does and why he loves it. He also spends his free time helping teach others in EMS and fire.

David was sick just over a year ago, and the illness resulted in lung surgery. He was told he could never put an SCBA on again, but that hasn't stopped him from being a firefighter and teaching they younger generation. Thank you, David, for not only doing everything that you do, but for being my partner at home, on the ambulance, and at the fire department."

Congratulations to David! We thank him for his service and dedication to our community!

Our First Responder Friday winners are selected from nominations submitted by you! You can make a nomination below. When including your photo, please keep in mind that any kids in the picture need to be your own. Please let us know if we have parental permission to post the children, otherwise, their faces will be covered when the photo is published on our sites. Thank you for your submissions!