By Andrew S.
After planning and completing an Eagle Scout project, Andrew A., student at The Family Foundation School, received the rank of Eagle Scout. He is the fourth person to receive the rank while enrolled at FFS.
This is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) program. Achieving it is a long process. Andrew said, “I feel accomplished. I started planning in April of 2008 and didn’t get it done until December.”
First, the Scout must come up with an idea that he presents to his Scoutmaster. Andrew’s idea, taken from a suggestion from Rita Argiros, Vice President for Administrative Affairs, was to plant trees behind the man-made lake on FFS campus that is used for swimming and fishing during the summertime.
Before the idea could be put into motion, Andrew had to develop a project plan that was approved by both the Boy Scouts and the school. “A forester came who told me generally how and what to do,” said Andrew. After he received the go-ahead, Andrew completed the project, but there was still one obstacle in his path.
“I had to present my project to the Board of Review who made sure that all my documents were correct and the project was enough work,” Andrew explained. The board found that his project was sufficient and he was given the rank of Eagle Scout on February 7.
Bruce Hutchison, Scoutmaster, said, “He produced one of the most ambitious Eagle Scout projects I have ever seen.” Hutchison continued, “Since I am an Eagle Scout myself, I know the importance of the accomplishment.” The Scoutmaster said that Eagle Scouts are very respected and have a lot of great opportunities because of their accomplishments.
Andrew concluded, “Bruce was an amazing help… The next part in scouting for me is to help others along the path of scouting.” He will get a chance to do this as his fellow Scouts Sean M., Luke V., and Victor C. strive to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout within the upcoming months.
