Special to IFN

William Francis Johnson was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout at a ceremony on Saturday, December 21, at the Troop 609 Scout hut on Davie Avenue. The troop is generously supported by First ARP Church.

Will is the son of Mitch and Anna Johnson and is a freshman at UNC Chapel Hill. He attended South Iredell High School and graduated from the North Carolina School of Science and Math in Morganton.

His scouting career included many weeks at camp, securing all the merit badges necessary to obtain this prestigious award. To earn the Eagle Scout award, the highest rank in Scouting, a scout must fill requirements in leadership, service, and outdoor skills. Although many options are available to get to this level, proficiency in specific skills is proven by the attainment of merit badges. As merit badges are acquired, a scout advances through the ranks of Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. 

Will’s service project was to create an outdoor break area at Oakwood Middle School with plants and picnic tables, which have served that school for the last couple of years.

The Eagle Scout rank has always carried with it a special significance, not only in Scouting, but also upon entering higher education, business, industry, and community service. Not everyone who enters a Scout Troop earns the Eagle Scout rank. Currently, only 4 percent of all scouts do so.

This award was the 45th presented by Jim Mixon, who has served as the Troop 609 Scout leader for years.

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Troop 609, visit https://nctroop609.wordpress.com/