How Scouts and Veterans Built a Culture of Collaboration
An April 20, 2026, Stars and Stripes story by Kat Nickola, “A Shared Heritage: How Scouts and Veterans Built a Culture of Collaboration,” traces the deep, decades-long bond between scouting and the military community. The article highlights how this connection began as early as 1913, when Scouts assisted Civil War veterans at the anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, and continued through both world wars with efforts on the home front. Over time, Scouts became a visible presence at remembrance events by placing flags, supporting ceremonies, and partnering with groups such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.
Scout Battles Cancer While Completing Eagle Scout Service Project
A 14-year-old Scout from Anacortes, Washington, Wyatt Ott of Troop 4911, completed his Eagle Scout service project while battling a rare and aggressive brain cancer. Despite undergoing daily radiation treatment after being diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma, Wyatt led a community effort to rebuild and restore raised flower beds at Mount Erie Elementary School. Originally planned before his diagnosis, the project became more urgent as Wyatt and his family pushed to complete it during his treatment. With support from fellow Scouts, friends, and the local community, Wyatt took on a leadership role, directing volunteers as they transformed the space into a beautiful and functional area for students.
Annual Report to the Nation Delivered by Scouts
Scouting America leaders and youth recently traveled to Washington, D.C. for the annual Report to the Nation, meeting with members of Congress and national leaders to share the impact of Scouting across the country. Through firsthand stories of service, leadership, and community engagement, Scouts highlighted how the program prepares young people to make ethical decisions and become active, informed citizens.
Michael Haines Honor by Alma Mater for Service and Leadership
Success isn’t always measured by titles. Sometimes, it’s measured by the people you impact along the way. During Purple and Gold Weekend, April 16–18, Albion College will recognize alumni who have made meaningful contributions in their careers and continued to support the college’s mission through service and leadership. Among this year’s honorees is Michael Haines ’85. As a student, Mike was deeply engaged across campus, serving as fraternity president and Interfraternity Council representative for Tau Kappa Epsilon, editor-in-chief of The Pleiad, a communications and SOAR leader, and a Summer Adventure counselor. His leadership was recognized early on with the Presidential Project 250 Award in 1984.
A Lost Scout Discovers an Eagle Scout Service Project
A wrong turn turned into a lasting impact. Lana Lien, a 16-year-old Eagle Scout candidate from Scouts BSA Troop 404, led a multi-year effort to restore and reimagine the historic Huntsville Spacewalk Trail atop Monte Sano. After getting lost on the trail at age 14 because of unclear markings, Lana turned that experience into purpose. Over two years, she partnered with the Land Trust of North Alabama, Burritt on the Mountain, and Monte Sano State Park to rebuild and reconnect the trail system.
Scouting America Is on the Fast Track to Remain Relevant
Scouting America is taking STEM learning to the fast lane through a new 2026 season-long partnership with AB Motorsports. Working alongside four-time Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown, this collaboration will give Scouts hands-on access to the science, technology, engineering, and teamwork behind NHRA drag racing at select national events across the season.
Veterans with Disabilities Will Benefit from an Eagle Scout Service Project
Hunter Diaz-Reyna is using his Eagle Scout service project to fund and build a greenhouse that will support therapeutic gardening for veterans recovering from traumatic brain injuries and polytrauma. Partnering with the San Antonio Polytrauma Transitional Rehabilitation Program and Soldiers’ Angels, his goal is to create a year-round growing space that overcomes Texas weather challenges and gives veterans a consistent, hands-on path to recovery.
Alum Jim Whittaker Remember for More Than Record Breaking Climbing
Jim Whittaker, the first American to summit Mount Everest, has passed away at 97. His journey began as a Scout in Washington’s Olympic Mountains, where he developed a lifelong connection to risk, resilience, and exploration. Over the years, he climbed Everest, K2, and Mount Rainier more than 100 times, while mentoring others and pushing the limits of what was possible.
Dave Tuttle Started Carving as a Scout and Never Looked Back
At 86, Dave Tuttle still starts with a plain block of wood and turns it into something most people would never see coming. What started with a simple Scout pocketknife carving neckerchief slides has turned into decades of mastery, teaching, and museum-quality work. From birds and decoys to Santas and intricate wildlife, his hands have never really stopped working. But the most powerful part of his story isn’t just the craftsmanship. It’s the throughline.
Paralympian and Scoutmaster Honored For His Achievements
Three-time Paralympian David Blair just added one of the rarest honors in scouting to an already extraordinary life story. A two-time Paralympic medalist, Blair received Scouting America’s Distinguished Eagle Scout Award (DESA), a distinction earned by only a small percentage of Eagle Scouts nationwide. It recognizes not just success, but a lifetime commitment to leadership, service, and impact. His journey is anything but typical.