Aaron Butler Memorial Purple Heart Run Returns to Eagle Island on August 16th
On Saturday, August 16, Eagle Island State Park will become more than a scenic venue—it will serve as sacred ground for remembrance, grit, and community at the 7th Annual Aaron Butler Memorial Purple Heart Run (ABMPHR). Hosted in memory of Staff Sergeant Aaron Butler, killed in action while fighting ISIS in Afghanistan, the event brings people together to run with purpose.
This year’s run includes a 5K, 10K, and the unpredictable, crowd-favorite “Unknown Distance Run”—where the only guarantee is no less than 400 meters. “It’s a mental and physical challenge,” says Dan Nelson, a former Special Forces teammate of Aaron and founder of the event. “But it’s nothing compared to what our brothers and sisters in uniform go through every day.”
Dan served with Aaron during the Global War on Terror and recalls him as a relentless force. “Aaron was the guy who led from the front. He didn’t just show up—he dominated. His commitment to excellence was contagious,” Nelson says.
Before the first step is taken, however, the run begins with what Dan calls the most powerful part of the day—the opening ceremony. “The service before the race gets me every single time,” he shares, visibly emotional. “When those bagpipes start playing, and you’re standing there surrounded by American flags and faces of the fallen—it’s overwhelming. You feel their presence. You feel the weight of their sacrifice.”
Dozens of banners line the start and finish areas, each bearing the face and name of a service member who gave their life. “Each one of those men and women had a story,” Dan explains. “And for a moment, you see them, you honor them—not just as soldiers, but as people who loved, laughed, and lived.”
This year, two powerful speakers will take the stage after most runners are finished—each sharing personal stories that highlight the true cost of war and the strength found in its aftermath. “We choose speakers who can connect emotionally—who remind us why we’re here,” Dan says. “You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. And then you’ll run.”
While the event is a solemn memorial to the Fallen, it reflects the realities of military and public service, which entails as many laughs as there are tears. “Aaron wouldn’t want us to just mourn,” Dan adds. “He’d want us to live fully. So after we honor him, we celebrate—with music, food, beer, and laughter. It’s exactly how he would’ve wanted it.”
From the stunning, newly renovated Eagle Island Park trails to the camaraderie and emotional depth of the ceremony, the ABMPHR is unlike any other event in Idaho—or the nation.
“It’s not about pace or placement,” says Dan. “It’s about showing up. For Aaron. For all of them.”
Proceeds support veteran organizations and mental health services, continuing the mission Aaron gave his life for.
Follow @butlerpurpleheartrun on Instagram for race day details and sign up.
Sign up. Show up. Embrace the fun. Run for those who can’t.
