Volunteerism Earns 11-year-old a Gift from the White House

At this time of year most kids are writing Christmas lists and planning their winter vacations. For 11-year-old Lower Merion resident Aidan Peterson, giving is better than receiving. This year Peterson’s volunteerism earned him a gift from the White House – the gold President’s Volunteer Service Award.

The President's Volunteer Service Award program encourages citizens to live a life of service through presidential gratitude and national recognition. It encourages people to take a look around, be inspired, and take positive action that changes the world.

Since 2015, Peterson has been the youngest live Taps bugler for the military. He is a proud member of Youth Trumpet and Taps Corps, Bugles Across America, and Taps for Veterans. All three organizations provide live Taps at no cost for military funerals and events. This year Peterson, and his Mom, traveled nearly 3,000 miles for him to perform over 200 hours of community service.

Many Philadelphia area organizations are proud to call Peterson their bugler. He has provided services for the Chapel of Four Chaplains, Delco Cruisers, the Liberty Bell Chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America, and many more.

Tom Manning, the President of Delco Cruisers, has had the privilege to work with Peterson and remarked, “This humble young man has been in the forefront of our car clubs Salute the Troops car show for the past three years. His rendition of Taps is on the mark and we have received many compliments for having someone like him perform this meaningful song for all the veterans and active military in attendance. We are proud to have him help us salute our military!”

Peterson’s service doesn’t stop with bugling. He also trumpets the National Anthem before basketball games at Harcum College. Last season the Women’s Team named him fan of the year for his support. He’s also working closely with the government, having proposed Pennsylvania Senate Bill 540 that when passed will give student musicians an excused absence from school to sound Taps at military funerals. The Bill has already passed the Senate and is awaiting a vote in the House Education Committee. Peterson hopes the new law will encourage other young musicians to put their talents to good use.

When he’s not volunteering, music is still the focal point of Peterson’s life. He is a Primavera Artist, member of the Delaware County Youth Orchestra, Upper Darby Sousa Band, DeLaSalle String Band Orchestra, and The Shipley School Honors Combo.