MANSON – Cameron Willoughby, a 2024 Manson High School grad, celebrated a major milestone in December when he was recognized for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.
Earning the Eagle Scout rank is a significant achievement, completed by only six percent of Boy Scouts. It requires earning more than 20 merit badges and demonstrating leadership through community service projects.
Willoughby began his scouting journey at the age of eight, with a clear goal in mind.
“I wanted to become an Eagle Scout because of the friendships I knew I would make and the important skills I needed to acquire,” Willoughby said. “Even if I hadn’t achieved the Eagle Rank, I knew I would still gain valuable lessons from Boy Scouts.”
The path to Eagle Scout rank is extensive. It begins with six Cub Scout ranks based on age, starting with Lion Scout for kindergarten-age kids, followed by Tiger Scout, Wolf, Bear, and Webelos. The final ceremony in Cub Scouts, the Arrow of Light Ceremony, involves figuratively and literally crossing a bridge to Boy Scouts.
Once in Boy Scouts, there are seven ranks: Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and finally, Eagle. These ranks must be completed before the scout’s 18th birthday.
To achieve the Eagle Scout rank, scouts must earn 21 Merit Badges, including 14 required badges, such as First Aid and Camping, and seven elective badges chosen from over 100 options.
“It wasn’t all hard work,” Willoughby said. “I fondly remember video game campouts at Wapato Lake Campground, Camp Fife near Mount Rainier, and Camp Pigott near Monroe, where I earned my canoeing merit badge.”
Willoughby achieved Eagle Scout Rank in October and was recognized at a ceremony on December 21.
The ceremony began with Chelan Scout Master Mark Carroll leading the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. Willoughby’s grandfather, Dan Mogan, pinned the Eagle Scout medal on him. Willoughby honored his parents, Diane and Chris, with “parent” pins.
Willoughby’s Mentors Matt Brown, Manson School District Band Teacher, and Scout Master Carroll were also recognized with “mentor” pins. The ceremony ended with Willoughby's father, Chris, placing the neckerchief he wore as a scout around Willoughby’s neck.
Willoughby expressed gratitude to several teachers who supported him throughout his time in school.
“I want to thank Mr. Brown, my band teacher, who fostered my love for music through every trimester in middle and high school,” he said. “I also thank Mr. Fournier, my Knowledge Bowl coach, and Mr. Amsden, my shop teacher, who taught me the art of wood and metalworking, skills that will help in my career.”
Willoughby is studying to be an Automotive Technician at Wenatchee Valley College. He plans to work in shops in the Wenatchee area before eventually opening his own shop in the Chelan Valley.
Norm Manly contributed to this report.
Quinn Propst: 509-731-3590 or quinn@ward.media.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here