Turkeys and Eagles, Socks and Knots

Effie Yeaw Nature Center, being a nature center, is subject to nature.  Therefore we arrived at the amphitheater a couple of hours early to clean the benches and the deck as well as do a little bit of setting up - refreshment table and picture table. Some of the local residents came by to check up on us. What a bunch of turkeys! A good of the required clean up was because they, too, enjoy gathering at the amphitheater.

Sorry, I cannot seem to do pictures on my blog right now.  Check out my Facebook album  "Benjamin Robarts Eagle Scout Court of Honor"

The Court of Honor was a pleasant blend of (well deserved) praise for Benjamin, tribute to Scouting, and fun - fond fun memories of Benjamin and of Scouting.  If by any chance the audience became bored with the proceedings (which I doubt), they were entertained by passing turkeys and deer. 

Our Emcee was Logan Hancock, Eagle Scout and former Senior Patrol Leader

The 11 Year Old Scouts did opening and closing flag.  Through some slight mishap, the flag pole stands were in a car headed in another direction, but they wouldn't have held up during the breeze anyway.  A pair of Eagles went behind the deck during flag and secured the poles to the deck railing with bungees.  It was handled so smoothly and respectfully, one would think it the original plan.  The young Scouts presented the flag in a very respectful and dignified manner.

Ethan Foell, current Senior Patrol Leader, lead the Scout Oath and Law.

I noticed when the Eagles in the audience were recognized that they were all young men.  None of the leaders present who had been so instrumental in helping these boys grow were themselves Eagle Scouts.  I thought how wonderful it is of them to give so much time and dedication to help boys achieve what they had not had the privilege to. To a man, I would say that each of them have Eagle spirit and character.  Even more than Eagles, they are true disciples of Christ who willing serve His sheep. 

As at least one of the speakers, Don Farrimond whose assignment was "100 Scouts" reminded us, Scouting touches boys for the better and influences their lives for good even if they do not make the rank of Eagle.

Riley, another Eagle and former Senior Patrol leader shared some Scouting memories, but he was not the only one.  Whatever the assignment was except for flag, prayer, and oath and law, each program participant added their personal admiration for Benjamin.  It was touching and heart swelling to hear so many men and young men extolling Benjamin.  His cheerfulness, dependability and can-do spirit were spoken of again and again. As well as some of his adventures.  His first week-long camp when he wore the same pair of socks ALL week was fondly(?) remembered.  As well as the Battle of the Racoons one night in his tent at Point Reyes.  And his skill at knots.  (Pioneering was his first and favorite merit badge.) 

Andrew, brother, Eagle Scout and newly returned missionary, issued the Eagle challenge, reminding Benjamin to BE an Eagle all his life. Also, referring to his knot tying skills, he said something like, "No more knots to tie.  Well, maybe ONE." which got a good laugh.

Benjamin chose to honor Greg Foell with the mentor pin for his life long example and particularly for the role he played in Benjamin's life as Teacher Quorum Adviser.  (14-15 year old boys)  One lesson Benjamin particularly appreciated learning from him was to look people in the eye.

In a highlight of the program Ray Hamaker led the old Troop 40 song which has great memories and meaning for many of the boys.  Then he led us in the adaption making it the Troop 941 song:
"We put the out in Scouting and we'll continue shouting, 'We are the spirit of 941!'
Roll out the Scouting thunder! (clap) We'll win, we won't go under.
We are the spirit of 941!
We welcome all the boys and all their hopes and joys.
We put the light of the Scouting torch on high.
Roll out the Scouting thunder! (clap) We'll win, we won't go under.
We are the spirit of 941!"

We hope that 941 adopts it and some of the spirit we felt in Troop 40.  Hopefully, Benjamin's 11 year olds, at least, will pick it up.

I also hope that Benjamin's example will help strengthen other young men on their trail to Eagle.

I am so grateful for the Scouting program.  I think Boy Scouts of America is great!