The Eagle

October 2020

What does it mean to be an Eagle Scout? How does one become an Eagle Scout? Why does it require a project? These are common questions to someone who hasn’t achieved the rank of Eagle. We celebrate when a Scout is decorated with the Eagle Scout rank. We give gifts and have a party. But what happens before the party? How much does a Scout really have to accomplish in order to earn the rank that only 4% of Scouts have the honor of claiming?

Eagle Scout brings introspective to service project

Caleb Foltz of Troop 318 in Arlington, Ohio decided to take an unusual route when it came to his Eagle Scout project.  Scouting has been a huge influencer for him and his faith journey over the years.  When he started to plan his Eagle Scout project, he thought of no better way to share his salvation story and how Scouting played a huge role in shaping who he is today. 

Caleb has wanted to become an Eagle as his grandfather never earned his Eagle Scout rank and he always regretted it.  So, he was not only setting the goal to achieve the highest rank in Scouting for himself but for his grandfather as well.  Caleb decided to take advantage of his Eagle Scout project and use it as outreach to his church and community by sharing his salvation story. 

With the help of his Pastor, and his Eagle mentor, Dave Sielschott, Caleb was able to achieve his vision for his eagle project. Caleb’s project involved assembling bags with various church-branded items as well as a letter from his pastor and a letter from him about his own salvation story.  He wanted to use these bags to help his community find their words and their stories.  When Caleb was given the opportunity to share his salvation story with his church community, he encouraged everyone to take two bags home with them.  One for their family and one to give to another when sharing their own salvation story. 

If Caleb could provide advice to fellow Scouts who are working towards their Eagle, it would be to involve yourself in a strong Troop and be a reason that it thrives.  He also encourages hard work starting at a young age. One of his favorite memories in Scouting was when he was able to give back.  He was given the opportunity to work on camp staff at Camp Berry, helping to lead the Baden Powell program, designed for first year Scouts.  He shared, “It reminded me of when I was a young Scout and the way the camp staff impacted me.”

Caleb’s future plans include attending a small college, where he can play football while earning an exercise degree, with a goal of becoming a fitness trainer after graduation. He plans to also follow his own advice and says, “I plan to stay in the Troop after getting my Eagle and still make an influence in my Troop and community.”

If you know a young person interested in joining Scouting or an adult interested in volunteering, please go to www.BeaScout.org to find a group near you!

If you know of a current local Eagle Scout who can be recognized for their efforts, please contact Jim Mason at jim.mason@scouting.org.