Young man’s passion for children lives on

Army Specialist Blain Matthew Ebert had a heart for children. Blain, a tank commander in the 4th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, was dedicated to serving his country through military service.

While stationed in Iraq he saw a need for the children in the area, and organized a clothing and shoe drive through his hometown community of Washtucna. His community stepped up and sent box after box of clothing, shoes, candy and other goods for Blain to distribute.

During his first tour in Iraq, Blain was killed when enemy forces engaged his unit with small arms fire in Baghdad in November of 2004.

With the same generosity and giving spirit the community had shown when Blain requested help for the Iraqi kids, these friends and family found a way to honor Blain in a meaningful way.

“When we lost Blain, we had a huge outpouring of support from all of our circles of influence. People knew of Blain’s passion for the health and well-being of children and donated generously to memorial fund in his name,” said Jennifer Camp, Blain’s sister.

Blain’s family wanted this donation to make a difference in a child’s life and chose to donate the entire fund, nearly $8,000 to the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Spokane.

This contribution has paid for a new reception window in the Outpatient Clinic, which has already made a big difference to the families and patients.

The new window will be named in remembrance of Blain Ebert.

“Blain was an amazing young man with a huge heart. We are honored to be able to help with such a worthy project in his name,” Camp said.