I have delayed, for no reason other than the seeming self-serving nature of stating so, that I was awarded in 2021 one of the highest distinctions offered by America’s Scouting programs.
Restrictions in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic meant there wasn’t to be any big ceremony, and outside of the small community of former boy scouts with lingering ties to the organization, few would know that any presentations ever took place. It’s been over twenty years since I was actively involved in scouting directly, having worked for my local council as a camp counselor at the turn of the millennium. In the intervening years I pursued vocational careers far from the roots of my hometown and the scout troops I took part in.
The citation accompanying the award lists some of my accomplishments from the subsequent decades. While those who know me would be familiar with those achievements, my often unusual career trajectory has allowed me to participate in events that are unique enough to be noteworthy. I would argue that I am not special in any way, these things for which I was recognized are not singular pinnacles of greatness but tasks of public service. That aligns with the intent of the award, but it feels important for me to address.
To be nominated for this recognition is award enough- I certainly didn’t seek it, and I have no expectations of receiving awards for my work. It still feels a bit peculiar to be the recipient of something uncommon enough to garner respect, particularly given my long absence from the scouting. If anything, it has renewed my appreciation for scouting and its missions.
Only four percent of the youth that join the scouts complete the trail to the Eagle award, the highest tier of boy scouts in America. It’s an exceptionally small number – and as the number of participants in scouting falls further, the list of eagle scouts will diminish still. The barrier to achieving Eagle is perseverance, following through, completing tasks to the fullest. There have been a lot of adjectives used to describe the person, their traits, and the code necessary for becoming an Eagle Scout. (One can find that language used in any literature associated with the history of the Boy Scouts). My own perspective is not so colorful: it’s a matter of focus and diligence.
That being said, I’m immensely grateful to be a recipient and considered an “outstanding eagle scout”. I’m aware that this is considered prestigious, and the criteria for nomination is exclusive to a very small segment of an even tinier percentage. I’m incredibly thankful for my father’s insistent encouragement to complete the necessary tasks to become and eagle scout- as well as his advocating for recognition of my post-scouting achievements. I’m appreciative of everyone in the Pacific Harbors Council who not only accepted my nomination, but facilitated the process and accommodated my absence due to the health precautions.
I feel inspired to take on a greater level of participation in the National Eagle Scout Association, hopefully in a capacity that makes a positive impact toward the longevity of the organization.
Aiming Higher 