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Idaho man who served with injured Belgium missionaries shares thoughts on terror attacks

1,272 views · Published 22 March 2016 · 4:40 · Indexed 26 October 2026

Channel: East Idaho News · 2016 · News & Politics

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IDAHO FALLS – It’s been a difficult day for Drew Traue.

The 21-year-old Skyline High School graduate, who recently returned from serving a mission in Europe for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, woke up to terrible news.

“My sister sent me a text which said, ‘I’m glad you’re not in Europe,’” Traue said in an interview with EastIdahoNews.com.  “I logged on my computer and saw there were explosions and bombs.  I was shocked.”

During his missionary service, which ended five months ago, Traue spent time in Belgium and was familiar with the Metro station and airport where explosions killed at least 30 people Tuesday.

“I could picture in my head going through (the Metro) for district meeting and going to the airport to pick up and drop off missionaries,” Traue said.  “I can just imagine myself being there right now.”

As hours passed Tuesday morning, Traue wondered if he might know anyone hurt or killed in the terrorist attacks.

“My mom called me and she just broke down crying and said there’s missionaries that are hurt,” Traue said.  “She told me their names and I said,  ‘Oh my goodness, I know all three of them.”

Elder Richard Norby, 66, of Lehi, Utah, Elder Joseph Empey, 20, of Santa Clara, Utah, and Elder Mason Wells, 19, of Sandy, Utah, were all seriously injured, according to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Traue served in the same district as Elder Wells and lived with him for a period of time.

“He is a good kid,” Traue said.  “I’ve seen how he works and lived with him.  He has the purest heart and is a good man.”

With the help of Facebook, Traue’s been able to touch base with most of the families and friends he knows living in Belgium.  He was particularly concerned about two individuals.

“They worked near the airport and I wondered if they were okay,” Traue said.  “They checked in on Facebook and said they were okay but they saw stuff happen.  It was mind blowing and crazy but I’m so glad they’ll be alright.”

Traue says while he may be living in Idaho, his mind and heart are in Belgium.  He has a special message for his missionary friends still serving in Europe.

“Stay strong,” Traue said.  “We have a Heavenly Father who loves us and wants to pick us up.  You’re doing what you’re supposed to and you’re in good hands right now.”

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