CULLMAN, Ala. – The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), and only an estimated 4% of Scouts have ever reached the rank. On Sunday, Aug. 20, 2023, three local Scouts – Jack Haynes, Michael Ostberg and Lee Robbins – earned the rank of Eagle Scout in a ceremony at Cullman First United Methodist Church.
Among the 300 or so requirements for merit badges and rank promotions, Eagle Scout Service Projects, or Eagle Projects, are a requirement of all those seeking the elusive title of Eagle Scout. The projects must be worked on for at least 13 hours and must benefit a charity, religious institution or school. The young men of Troop 219 kept it very on-brand for the BSA as a whole by choosing projects dedicated to local institutions preserving history and skills that shape the Scouts themselves: Haynes supporting Peinhardt Living History Farm, Ostberg choosing Crooked Creek Civil War Museum and Robbins selecting West Point School, specifically its archery team.
Scoutmaster Jonathan Haynes shared a few words, noting the growth of these young men over their combined years of Scout experience. “In just a few years, these Scouts have undergone quite a change,” he said. “From Scouts simply trying to memorize the Scout Oath and Law, to Scouts who live those words. From those who wanted to get outdoors to those who have been camping a number of times. From those who needed to be led, to those who can now lead others.”
BSA Program Aide Vince Lambert also shared in the topic of growth, the powerful motivation of failure and the new beginning it brings.
“Do you remember the first time you tried to build a fire? You failed, didn’t you? And what about your first hike, the one that ended in sore muscles and blisters? You didn’t win the first time you ran for patrol leader, and when you did win, you made plenty of mistakes,” explained Lambert, sharing stories of successful men like Michael Jordan and Thomas Edison, who have failed publicly and gotten right back up. “These men never let their failure get them down. Instead, they learned from their mistakes, improved themselves and went on to enjoy great success.”
The ceremony came to a close after an emotional exchange of pins and badges between the newly promoted Eagle Scouts and their parents, with a standing ovation and these words ringing through the four walls: “It gives me great pleasure to present to you our newest Eagle Scouts: Jack Haynes, Michael Ostberg and Lee Robbins.”
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