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Mormon Scientist: The life and faith of Henry Eyring.

Memoirs of the man who fused science & religion

Memory

Congratulations from N. Eldon Tanner

N. Eldon Tanner |  posted: March 27, 2008 |  occurred: 1967-01-04 |  in: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America

January 4, 1967

Dear Brother Eyring:

I was delighted to read in the paper the other day that you were named to receive the National Medal of Science for 1966, the highest honor the Federal Government can bestow for academic achievement. You and those who are responsible for naming you for this honor are to be congratulated.

I know of no one better prepared for this honor, and it seems that everybody agrees. The thing which is most significant and which means so much to the youth of the Church is for them to realize that men can be worthy of and receive these high honors and carry on as devoted members of the Church living exemplary lives in every way.

Such examples add great strength to the message I endeavor to give our youth, which is that they should gain in the schools of higher learning all the knowledge possible so as to enjoy and contribute to the great progress that is being made in the many fields of learning. At the same time I try to help them understand that the teachings of the gospel are essential to their success, joy, and happiness in the world and will lead them to salvation and eternal life. Your life contributes greatly to this philosophy.

Again my congratulations.

Yours sincerely,

N. Eldon Tanner