Yesterday I had the privilege of attending an Eagle Scout Court of Honor Ceremony in which Eric became an Eagle Scout. What a thrill to see a young man acknowledged for what he has done, what he has become, and what he will continue to be – a man of character.
Boy Scouts don’t become Eagle Scouts just because they look so good in their uniforms, they earn this award!
Among other requirements, a scout must have served actively in a position of leadership and responsibility in his Boy Scout troop and demonstrate that he lives by the principles of the Scout Oath and Law in his daily life. He must earn at least 21 merit badges including: First Aid, Citizenship in the Community, the Nation, and the World, Communications, Personal Fitness, Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, Environmental Science, Personal Management, Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, Camping, and Family Life. All of these demonstrate that he has the skills needed to live a life of service, leadership and responsibility.
He must also have had leadership responsibility in his school, religious organization, club, or community. He must plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to a religious institution, a school, or his community.
If you ever have the opportunity to attend one of these Boy Scout ceremonies, do so! It’s time well spent to see those who have supported a boy’s efforrs – parents, family, friends, troop leaders, and fellow scouts – bursting with pride and admiration for a man who just a short time ago was a boy. And finally, if at all possible, make sure your son has the opportunity to learn these leadership skills as a scout or in a similar organization which recognizes and awards his accomplishments.
Congratulations, Eric.