News

An Eagle Scout from Champaign, Illinois, is being recognized for courage, leadership, and living the Scout motto – Be Prepared. Lily S. of Troop 2119 received the Medal of Merit from Prairielands Council, Scouting America, for rescuing a friend from drowning during a summer 2024 gathering. After noticing her friend struggling in the pool’s deep end, Lily used her lifesaving training to stay calm, safely assist her friend to the shallow water, and make sure she was okay. She never sought attention for her actions, only sharing the story later to teach younger Scouts the importance of first aid and lifesaving skills.

For Eagle Scout Drew Neill, it all began with an article he read in the eighth grade titled “Authentic Down to Their Underwear.” The article described Civil War reenactors who wore the same clothes, ate the same food, and listened to the same music that had been popular more than a hundred years earlier. The idea of reenacting, or “living history,” fascinated him, and he eventually dedicated both his personal and professional life to it.

Congratulations to Paul W. Kaufman on his appointment as First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware. With nearly two decades of service as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Paul has built an exceptional career in civil fraud enforcement, recovering hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars, advancing innovative litigation practices, and mentoring the next generation of federal prosecutors. His work as a respected educator, scholar, and trial advocacy instructor has influenced countless attorneys across the country.

From Cub Scout to NHRA champion, alum Antron Brown knows that success is built one lesson, one challenge, and one opportunity at a time. Fresh off his victory in Bristol, Tennessee, four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion Antron Brown is showing the next generation that the values learned through Scouting, including leadership, perseverance, teamwork, and determination, can help drive success both on and off the track. Scouting America is proud to partner with AB Motorsports, led by Antron Brown, to inspire young people through the excitement of NHRA drag racing.

Congratulations to alum Ed Sutton, Advisor of Mercy Flights Explorer Post 131 in Medford, Oregon, on receiving the Oregon Silver Sparky Award, one of the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s highest honors for outstanding achievement in public safety education. For nearly 30 years, Ed has helped introduce young people to careers in emergency medical services through Scouting America’s Exploring program.

A young hero is being celebrated in Bixby, Oklahoma, after his split-second decision helped save an infant’s life. Scout Ryker Yocham is being recognized for his bravery after jumping into a swimming pool to rescue an infant who had fallen in. Ryker received a Life Saving Pin and Command Coin from the Bixby Police Department, presented by Chief Todd Blish. Previously, he received an award through Scouting America.

Meet alum Sam Seward – Eagle Scout, musician, honor student, Georgia Tech admit, and recent high school graduate. Just months before graduation, Sam was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Most people would understand if his focus shifted entirely to his own battle. Instead, while receiving treatment in the hospital, Sam continued folding origami cranes for other cancer patients.

Congratulations to alum Jacob Lynn Godwin on receiving the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. A Deputy Solicitor for the Fourth Judicial Circuit, Jacob was recognized for a lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to the people of South Carolina. His distinguished legal career has been marked by integrity, compassion, and a commitment to ensuring justice and fairness for all.

Scouting America today announced a new five-year partnership with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) aimed at advancing the development of America’s next generation STEM workforce through immersive, hands-on educational experiences. This collaboration will connect young people across the country with real-world learning opportunities centered on space exploration, aeronautics, and STEM: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

For Crystal Thomas, scouting is about much more than badges and activities. It’s about building community, fostering growth, and being a positive role model for young people. As Cubmaster of Pack 3219 and assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 220, Crystal has dedicated years to supporting youth development after first becoming involved when her own children joined scouting. Her leadership journey includes serving as a den leader for 4 years and helping guide Troop 220 for the past 5 years.

As a Scouting alum, I find that stories like this one remind me why Scouting leaves such a lasting impact. Nine years after losing his 4-year-old sister, Evie, in a tragic drowning accident, 17-year-old Carson Hoskins returned to Wildwood Park to dedicate a free life jacket station as his Eagle Scout service project.

When we celebrate Flag Day, it is fitting to recognize the Scouts and leaders who help preserve and share the traditions and values represented by our nation’s flag. Earlier this month, Scouts from Carmel, Indiana Troop 733 demonstrated the proper display, handling, and care of the American flag in preparation for the upcoming 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding. The presentation served as both an educational opportunity and a meaningful reminder of the respect owed to one of our country’s most enduring symbols.