Mayor Mark Begich remarks
Boy Scout Leaders’ Memorial Service
7 p.m.; August 10, 2005; Sullivan Arena

Thank you for allowing me to speak here this evening.

I am honored to add my voice in praise of the Alaska heroes we memorialize together: Ron Bitzer, Michael Lacroix, Michael Shibe, and Scott Powell.

The weeks since these remarkable men were taken from us have been difficult. Each of us has struggled to mark this tragic event as best we know how. I was proud to lower the city’s flags in recognition of these exceptional citizens.

Yet nothing we can say or do takes away the pain, and no symbol is large enough to stand for our loss. So, with that in mind, I’d like to speak from my heart and address the children of these four fathers.

To Brett and Brian – sons of Ron Bitzer.

To Clayton, Cullen, Chantry and Seneca - children of Michael Lacroix.

To Brent, Neil, Karl and Paul - sons of Michael Shibe.

To all the scouts of Alaska, who were like sons to Scott Powell.

Few can understand your pain, or the challenges that are ahead of you. But know this: everyone in this room and in this community stands at your side.

I know this because I once sat where you sit today. My father died in 1972. I was only 10 years old.

Like everyone who is left behind by a dear family member, I wondered why I had to carry the extra burden of growing up without my dad. Now I have a son of my own, and I understand how dearly a father loves his child, and why it’s so important to spend time together.

I would venture to say that these men lost their lives doing the thing that brought them the greatest fulfillment in life: leading their children. Showing them the way.

In life, they gave themselves to young people. That they died serving their community and Scouting adds to our sadness.

But it comforts us to know that they were doing what they wanted, for the children who mattered so much to them.

You boys who went to the Scouting Jamboree with your fathers, and with Scott Powell—you should know the gift you gave your fathers by following their leadership. You helped them be the best men they could by working hard at learning what they were teaching. And what great men they were!

In these days when families struggle and society yearns for true leaders, these four men exemplified the best of parenting. You children, you can hold that in your hearts.

Douglas MacArthur, one of our nation’s greatest generals, said of fatherhood: “By profession I am a soldier and take pride in that fact. But I am prouder – infinitely prouder – to be a father.”

In my own life, I know those words are true. Whatever accomplishments a man may attain, his deepest hope is that he gives to his son or daughter what that child needs to grow strong and proud.

Your fathers continue to guide you. The example they set can never be erased. They were great men, and always great they will remain. God willing, we will live up to their memory.

Thank you, and God bless you.

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